The ability to build houses by using the developments in 3D printing is fascinating and is perhaps yet another example of necessity being the mother of invention. This time the necessity is the reported lack of skilled bricklayers in Holland.

A reduction in costs together with the environmental advantage of reducing waste should, if realised, be an incentive for others to further develop this idea. It can also perhaps be seen as another step in the established and growing trend in the UK construction industry for off-site, modular construction methods. Indeed, a growing number of the projects I advise on are procured through this method and it is not confined to student residences and 3D printing may be the next, logical step in this process.

Of course another other advantage of off-site construction is that it rains less inside a factory which, from speaking to employees of businesses, is welcomed.