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The University of Windsor is launching a groundbreaking project that signifies a major advancement in construction technology: Canada’s first multi-storey 3D-printed residence. This initiative emerges as Ontario faces a persistent housing crisis, struggling to achieve its construction goals.
By leveraging large-scale 3D printing technology, the project seeks to transform housing construction in the province, providing a potential solution to the ongoing shortage of affordable homes.
Innovation through collaboration
Located at 1025 California Avenue in Windsor, the new structure will accommodate seven student units and function as a research hub for the university’s engineering faculty. The project received a financial boost of $2 million from FedDev Ontario and is further supported by partnerships with Printerra Inc. and Desjardins Ontario Credit Union. This collaborative effort is designed as a pilot project to evaluate the feasibility of additive construction for producing homes more efficiently and at a lower cost.
Transforming housing solutions
Dr. J.J. McMurtry, president and vice-chancellor of the University of Windsor, highlighted the significance of this project, stating, “This initiative exemplifies the power of purposeful collaboration among government entities, academic institutions, and industry.”
Leading the initiative is engineering professor Dr. Sreekanta Das, who emphasizes that the on-site printing process will yield crucial data on durability, energy efficiency, and overall cost-effectiveness, all evaluated under real-world conditions. This research is essential as it could guide policymakers regarding the scalability of net-zero technology in larger residential constructions.
Addressing the housing challenge
As Ontario’s housing goals face intensified scrutiny with revised construction targets, this project arrives at a crucial juncture. The recent fall economic statement from Ontario’s government indicates a projected shortfall of 81,700 homes between 2025 and 2027 compared to previous estimates. Current projections suggest that the province may only fulfill about 40 percent of its housing target for 2026.
A comprehensive plan for Windsor
Windsor’s Mayor Drew Dilkens emphasized the urgent issues surrounding housing supply and affordability during a recent press conference. He stated that the city’s Housing Solutions Made for Windsor strategy has earmarked approximately four square kilometers for residential development, aiming to construct 13,000 homes by 2031.
The introduction of this innovative construction technology has raised hopes among officials that these ambitious targets can be met. Leigh Newman, CEO of Printerra, noted, “This milestone not only advances additive construction but also lays the groundwork for its broader implementation across the housing sector.”
A beacon of hope amidst skepticism
New housing initiative highlights innovative solutions
Harald Bathelt, a professor in the geography and planning department at the University of Toronto, emphasizes that the Windsor initiative represents a significant advancement in housing solutions. This comes at a time when skepticism regarding new approaches persists in various regions, including the United States. Bathelt noted that there has been considerable resistance to global climate solutions, particularly concerning net-zero technology.
“This project serves as a reminder that diverse policy strategies are still on the table,” Bathelt stated, underscoring the necessity for innovative thinking to address housing challenges.
As the University of Windsor progresses with this groundbreaking project, it stands as a testament to the potential of 3D printing technology and a vital response to the ongoing housing crisis in Ontario. The collaboration among academia, industry, and government may pave the way for a new era in residential construction.