| 29 T T Karen Phelps Innovations in 3D printed homes impress buyers The company’s innovation centres on a complete residential design and build system incorporating 3D concrete printed technology. Iconic Construction REGIONAL DEVELOPMENT Hamilton-based Iconic Construction was pleased to be named a finalist in two categories at the 2025 Waikato Chamber of Commerce Business Awards, receiving recognition for both Innovation and Marketing. “We were really chuffed to be recognised. It makes you reflect on your business to have judges come in and look at how and what you are doing as a business,” says general manager Johnny Gordon. “It was an opportunity to show how we are trying to innovate and lead in our industry. It was also a great night with our team to celebrate our achievements.” The company’s innovation centres on a complete residential design and build system incorporating 3D concrete printed technology. While the 3D concrete printing itself is carried out by its partner QOROX, the unique process, design adaptation and construction methodology were developed by Iconic Construction and QOROX to make 3D printed homes available for New Zealand’s residential market. This was demonstrated in Hamilton with the country’s first 3D printed show home, built in just 99 days. “Unlike other global 3D printed structures, the system is specifically tailored for Kiwi living. The three-bedroom home highlights a modern, architecturally designed layout and provides a tangible showcase of the system’s potential,” says Johnny. He says the collaboration with QOROX and The Architecture People focused on designing wall panels with integrated insulation, wiring and plumbing access, developing aesthetically pleasing concrete features, creating a modular offsite printing and onsite assembly process, and navigating council consent for a first-of-its-kind build. “Our innovation is not just technical; it’s procedural. We reimagined every step of the build process to eliminate inefficiencies, reduce reliance on traditional materials, and overcome entrenched industry norms,” says Johnny. The opportunity arose from New Zealand’s ongoing housing shortage, post-COVID material supply disruptions, skilled labour shortages and the need for resilient construction in seismic zones. Iconic Construction and QOROX responded by designing a build system that can be completed in about half of the time of a traditional build while offering superior sustainability, durability and safety. The rollout of the innovation followed a structured process. “Panels were printed and cured offsite, unaffected by weather or delays, before being installed onsite in under two days. “Council engagement involved educating stakeholders and helping establish the consenting process for this new technology. Public education was achieved through a video series documenting the build journey, ensuring transparency and trust.” Jonny says clients benefit from faster build times. The company’s Hamilton show home was completed in 99 days compared with the typical eight to nine months. The long-term resilience of homes is another advantage with an expected lifespan of 150–200 years. The concrete panels are fireproof, flood-resistant and seismically robust. 3D printed homes produce 70% less waste and 40% lower CO2 emissions than traditional builds. Energy efficiency is enhanced by the thermal mass and insulation of the walls, providing warmer, drier living spaces. Sustainability measures include sourcing 80% of materials locally, reducing waste to one skip bin per home, and repurposing misprinted panels into cement powder or outdoor furniture. “Decentralised printing allows offsite production, minimising delays and supporting future scalability,” adds Johnny. Find us on www.fineline.nz | 021 385 569 FASCIA | SPOUTING | DOWNPIPES CALL US FOR A FREE QUOTE PROUD TO SUPPORT ICONIC CONSTRUCTION Brick and Block Laying | Residential Exterior Bricking on New Homes | Plaster Brick Systems Brick Fences | Concrete Blocks & Block Foundations | Feature Walls Repair Work and Insurance Claim Work | Hinuera Stone Cladding | Brick Letterboxes OUR TRUSTED SUPPLIERS AND BUSINESS PARTNERS AFFILIATIONS CALL US NOW 027 474 6654 PROUD TO SUPPORT ICONIC CONSTRUCTION Master Bricklayers, Blocklayers and Structural Masons Proven specialists in the delivery of complex multi-disciplinary projects ranging from commercial building to FMCG Manufacturing plants. Our in-house technical expertise ensures project success. Proud to work alongside Iconic Construction with manufacture and installation of structural steel 0 2 7 8 9 9 4 5 9 3 t a h i w i @magn e r e ng . c o . n z www.magn e r e ng . c o . n z
RkJQdWJsaXNoZXIy NDc2Mzg=