HEI³ and Dreihaus in econo business magazine
Europe’s largest 3D-printed residential building is being built in Heidelberg
The Dreihaus project at Campbell Areal in Heidelberg is the focus of an extensive article in the business magazine econo. In issue 5/2025, the magazine reports on the building’s innovative construction method and the role of modern technologies in residential construction.
The article describes how a building is being constructed on the former Campbell Barracks site, with its load-bearing walls fabricated using a large 3D printer. A robotic arm applies concrete layer by layer, forming the structure of the house directly on the construction site.
A milestone for residential construction
According to those involved, the project marks an important step for the future of building. The so-called Dreihaus is considered a reference project for serial 3D printing in residential construction.
The technology makes it possible to erect buildings faster while using resources more efficiently. According to project participants, a building constructed this way can be completed around thirty percent faster than a comparable apartment building using conventional construction methods.
The technology also opens up new economic perspectives, as building processes can be more highly automated.
Innovative construction method with serial potential
The building’s design is specifically tailored to 3D printing. The residential units range from approximately 46 to 89 square meters. A total of six to nine apartments are being created within the building.
The project demonstrates how the technology can be used for future construction projects. The developed concepts can be used multiple times, offering potential for broader application in residential construction.
More sustainable materials in the construction process
Beyond the construction method, the materials used also play an important role. A specially developed cement is used for the building printing, which generates significantly less CO₂ compared to conventional building materials.
The material was specifically developed for use in 3D printing and is intended to help make construction processes more sustainable.
HEI³ Apartments boarding house planned
Completion of the building is scheduled for summer 2026. The building will then operate as a boarding house.
Under the name HEI³ Apartments – Heidelberg hoch 3 (Heidelberg cubed), modern apartments are being created where guests can experience staying in a 3D-printed building. Business travelers, professionals and interested parties will have the opportunity to experience this innovative form of construction and living for themselves.
Source
Bauroth, Katja (2025). „Turbo für den Wohnbau: Jetzt wird gedruckt statt gemauert“, econo Wirtschaftsmagazin, issue 5/2025: 64-66.
HEI³ in the spotlight of national & international media
How an innovative construction project from Heidelberg is attracting global attention
The HEI³ project in Heidelberg is currently at the center of numerous media reports. Newspapers, specialist magazines, television stations and online portals are covering this exceptional construction project, which is being realized using modern 3D printing technology.
The building is considered one of the most innovative construction projects in the region and impressively demonstrates how new technologies can transform residential construction. The combination of digital planning, automated construction methods and modern apartment concepts has generated particular interest among experts from architecture, construction and urban development.
A construction project with international appeal
The use of 3D printing in construction is a topic of growing significance worldwide. While initial projects are emerging in various countries, HEI³ is among the few buildings in Germany consistently applying this technology in practice.
Media reports particularly highlight three aspects:
- The innovative construction method using large-format concrete printing
- The efficiency and speed of construction processes
- The combination of modern architecture with digital living
This combination makes the building an important reference project for the future of construction.
Attention from architecture, construction and technology
Specialist editors from architecture, construction and technology are closely examining the project. Particular emphasis is placed on how digital planning and automated manufacturing can create new possibilities in residential construction.
Experts see great potential in 3D printing to make construction processes more efficient while enabling new architectural forms. The Heidelberg project already demonstrates how this development can be implemented in practice.
Heidelberg as a hub for innovation
With the HEI³ project, Heidelberg once again positions itself as a hub for innovation and future technologies. The city is internationally renowned for research, science and technological progress.
The new building fits seamlessly into this environment, combining modern construction methods with an innovative usage concept. In addition to the distinctive architecture, the digital organization of stays plays an important role.
Architecture meets digital living
Beyond the construction method, the usage concept is also the focus of many reports. The apartments combine modern design, premium furnishings and digital processes into a contemporary living concept.
The entire stay is organized digitally. From booking to check-in and apartment access, everything is conveniently handled via smartphone. This concept enables flexible stays and appeals to both international guests and modern travelers.
A project with significance for the future
Media interest clearly demonstrates the importance already attributed to this project. HEI³ is regarded as an example of how technological innovation, architecture and modern living can be brought together.
Many experts see this as an important step in advancing construction in Germany and Europe. Projects like this show how new technologies can contribute to making construction processes more efficient while enabling new forms of living.
Conclusion
The HEI³ project in Heidelberg is creating a building that is attracting attention far beyond the region. The innovative construction method using 3D printing, the modern architecture and the digital usage concept make this project an important example for the future of construction.
The extensive coverage in national and international media already demonstrates the significance attributed to this development.
