SAGA Space Architects, in collaboration with MS+ Arkitekter, has completed the construction of Europe's largest residential complex created using 3D printing. This project includes 36 student apartments distributed across six low-rise buildings.
The complex, named 'Skovsporet', is located in Holstebro, Denmark, near VIA University College. The total development area is 1650 sq. m, and it functions as a student village with autonomous individual dwellings.
Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, a study area, a living room, a bathroom, and a sleeping space. Common internal courtyards, gardens, pathways, and bicycle parking contribute to fostering a community among resident students.
The buildings were constructed using the COBOD BOD3 3D printer, which deposits concrete layers with high precision to form load-bearing walls. As the work progressed, the process became more efficient: the printing time for the first building took several weeks, while for the final cluster of six apartments, it was reduced to just five days.
The total project implementation period was 12 months, including traditional construction work such as roof installation, doors, and interior finishing.
Sustainable methods were employed in the construction and site planning. These included the use of D.fab concrete with reduced carbon content, incorporating FUTURECEM, as well as experimental MEVOcem elements that are cement-free and achieve an 84% reduction in CO₂ emissions. Furthermore, the complex was designed to preserve about 90% of the mature forest area on the site, situated among existing trees.
The architectural prototypes of 3D printing at 'Skovsporet' demonstrate high-tech and ecological approaches to creating large-scale residential communities.