Houston is facing a housing crisis. Climate change and rising costs have pushed the affordability gap to nearly $176,000, making homeownership out of reach for many families. But a new project, Zuri Gardens, is showing a smarter way forward: large-scale 3D-printed homes.
⚡ Fast, Strong, and Affordable
Zuri Gardens is led by local builder Cole Klein and 3D-construction startup HiveASMBLD. The community will feature 80 energy-efficient homes, each selling in the mid-to-high $200Ks with down payment assistance of up to $125,000.
Each house is 3D-printed using a proprietary concrete blend — faster, stronger, and more efficient than traditional construction.
“Homebuyers are ready for something they can afford and that’s built well,” says Robert Spiegel, HiveASMBLD’s chief development officer.
💎 Luxury Quality, Affordable Price
Unlike typical affordable housing, Zuri Gardens doesn’t cut corners. Every home is made from the same materials used in higher-end construction, ensuring durability, energy efficiency, and climate resilience.
- Flood-resistant walls
- Mold-resistant structure
- Extreme heat durability
Spiegel emphasizes that these homes are designed to last and maintain their value — no cheap materials or shortcuts.
🖨️ How 3D-Printed Homes Work
HiveASMBLD uses robotic printers to lay custom mortar layer by layer, forming strong structural walls. Then traditional mechanical, electrical, and plumbing systems are installed. The walls are backfilled with concrete foam, creating a “mass wall” that insulates, strengthens, and reduces noise.
The result:
- Faster builds
- Lower labor and material costs
- Energy-efficient, resilient homes
Insurance companies also favor these homes because they’re low-risk structures, reducing premiums for homeowners.
💰 Savings & Long-Term Benefits
3D printing eliminates much of the labor and lumber costs of conventional construction, allowing faster completion at a lower price. Homes are quieter, maintain indoor temperatures better, and require less maintenance.
“If your kid crashes a skateboard into the wall, it’s not sheetrock—they’re not going through it,” Spiegel jokes.
🌍 Could This Be the Future?
Zuri Gardens could serve as a blueprint for affordable housing nationwide. By combining technology, durability, and design, 3D-printed homes provide quality, efficiency, and affordability all in one package.
Spiegel says the goal is simple: help hardworking families own homes without sacrificing quality. If successful, this approach could reshape how cities tackle housing shortages for years to come.