3D printing technology has advanced to the point where entire livable houses can now be printed, most commonly using concrete. However, an innovative project in Japan has taken this concept further by printing an entire house with a soil-based mixture. Named Lib Earth House (Model B), this 100-square-meter (1,076-square-foot) single-story home in Yamaga, Kumamoto Prefecture, is the result of a collaboration between Lib Work Co., Arup, and WASP.
Unlike typical 3D printed homes, it utilizes earth, lime, and natural fibers that are renewable and have a low environmental impact. This makes the house environmentally friendly and about five times stronger than its predecessor, which contained some cement.
This 3D printed home features an open-plan living, dining, kitchen area, bedrooms, bathroom, toilet, and a central courtyard, with a wooden frame supporting earthen walls. It offers a living space that harmonizes with the natural environment and allows for comfortable living with a deep connection to the changing seasons.
Advanced sensors are embedded in the walls to monitor temperature, humidity, condensation, and material deterioration, while IoT technology enables remote control of appliances. A facial recognition front door is also included as a standard feature. The house is off-grid with solar panels and Tesla Powerwall battery storage, promoting a self-sufficient and sustainable lifestyle.
The Lib Earth House Model B is designed with a cluster-mode layout for versatile earthen volumes and maximizing natural light and ventilation. At the end of its life, the structure can be dismantled and returned to the soil for minimizing landfill waste. This project marks a significant milestone in 3D printed architecture by combining cutting-edge technology with sustainable materials and design.
There are no official details regarding pricing and availability of the Lib Earth House; however, New Atlas notes that pre-orders start in August 2025, with plans to deliver 10,000 units by 2040.
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