The University of Windsor has officially started 3D printing Canada's first net-zero, multi-storey student residence, marking a major milestone in sustainable construction and housing innovation.
Supported by a $2-million investment from the Government of Canada, through the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario (FedDev Ontario), the project demonstrates how technology, research and collaboration can help address housing challenges while advancing environmental sustainability.
Workers operate a large-scale 3D printer on site at 1025 California Ave. as the University of Windsor begins construction on Canada's first net-zero, multi-storey 3D-printed student residence a milestone made possible through support from FedDev Ontario and industry partners. (FILES/University of Windsor)
Printing officially started on the construction site at 1025 California Ave., where a state-of-the-art 3D printer is now in operation.
"This project shows what's possible when government, academia and industry work together with purpose," said Dr. J.J. McMurtry, President and Vice-Chancellor of the University of Windsor. "With support from FedDev Ontario and our incredible partners, we are demonstrating how 3D printing can make homebuilding faster, more affordable and more sustainable."
Once completed, the net-zero building will include seven residential units designed to house students while serving as a living laboratory for researchers and students in the Faculty of Engineering. Led by Dr. Sreekanta Das and his team, the research behind this project integrates education, innovation and environmental responsibility. The 3D-printed housing project will also act as a training ground for the next generation of builders and innovators working to develop sustainable housing solutions.
The first layers of Canada's inaugural multi-storey 3D-printed student residence take shape as the printer lays down precision-formed concrete, marking a major early milestone in the University of Windsor housing project. (FILES/University of Windsor)
In a written statement, the Honourable Evan Solomon, Minister of Artificial Intelligence and Digital Innovation and Minister responsible for the Federal Economic Development Agency for Southern Ontario, congratulated the University of Windsor on this construction milestone:
"The University of Windsor is redefining affordability and sustainability in construction through Canada's first on-site printed multi-storey student residence. With hands-on training and strong partnerships, this project is a true example of how innovation and collaboration can drive change. The Government of Canada is proud to support this important work to advance housing innovation and boost manufacturing efficiency."
The project brings together a strong network of industry and community partners, including Desjardins Ontario Credit Union and Printerra Inc.
As part of their commitment to advancing green technology and community development, Desjardins has announced a $250,000 contribution in support of the project.
"Our contribution to the University of Windsor is a strategic investment in the future health of our communities," said Billy Boucher, CEO of Desjardins Ontario Credit Union. "This bold initiative exemplifies the potential of sustainable construction, and we're proud to support such forward-thinking innovation through our Community Development Fund."
"We're thrilled to be the innovation partner on this visionary project, showing the world what's possible when technology, research, and collaboration come together," added Leigh Newman, CEO of Printerra Inc. "This milestone reflects Printerra's leadership in advancing additive construction and providing a platform that enables its wider adoption."
