Homelessness is a major issue in Los Angeles especially after the COVID-19 pandemic with the rising house prices, higher interest rates and inflation. 3D printing has made significant advancements in recent years, and the technology is now being used to construct houses. 3D printed houses involves using large-scale 3D printers to build entire houses, including walls, and floors, in a matter of hours or days. This innovative technology has the potential to transform the construction industry in several ways. 3D printed houses could significantly reduce construction time and costs. Traditional construction methods can be time-consuming and require skilled labor, which can be expensive. In contrast, 3D printed houses can be built quickly and with fewer workers, reducing construction costs. The technology also has the potential to minimize waste by using only the exact amount of materials needed for the project, reducing excess materials and waste disposal costs. 3D printed houses can be built using environmentally friendly materials, which could help to reduce the carbon footprint of the construction industry. Also, 3D printed houses can increase design flexibility. Traditional construction methods are limited by the shape and size of building materials, but 3D printed houses can produce complex and intricate designs with ease. Architects and builders can use 3D printed technology to create unique and aesthetically pleasing designs, allowing for more creative freedom in construction projects. One last note is that 3D printed houses have the potential to transform the construction industry by reducing construction time and costs, increasing design flexibility, and potentially addressing the housing crisis. While there are still some challenges to be addressed, technology shows promise and could be a significant part of the future of construction.  

       The U.S. Department of Energy launched the Solar Decathlon global challenge for college students to design and build zero-energy buildings which Woodbury University is a proud participant of. Woodbury University’s Solar Futures Team aims to find solutions to these issues through sustainable methods and 3D printed concrete to create a 500 square foot dorm. With the support of local and national sponsors the Solar Futures Team has been working on their project since Spring 2022. Solar Features project is a significant milestone for the city of Burbank as it will be Burbank's first 3D printed housing structure. The project will not use any power from the city and will only rely on the solar panels from the roof to power the whole project. It also aims to use less water from the city as the project incorporates reusable water methods that can be used for drinking, washing hands, washing clothes and showering. On Feb 8 Woodbury University hosted “Print Party” for “Solar Futures”, by the North Hall dorms where the project is located. The live demonstration of 3D printing event was hosted to show the process of 3D printing technology and show the sponsors the progress of the project. It is possible to use 3D technology for the future of housing. The project’s construction is happening now on campus, and they hope to finish the project by the end of March. ​