In Barcelona, a modern social housing block showcases the innovative use of robots in construction. This 56-dwelling building features 84 solar panels and a ground-floor nursery. Lucas Carné, co-founder of 011h, a construction tech firm, emphasizes the transformative power of their digital tools. “Our software is our superpower,” he states. By utilizing prefabricated components, 011h reduces on-site labour, making construction efficient.
Spain faces a housing shortage as demand outstrips supply. 011h aims to tackle this issue by incorporating the use of robot systems, planning to scale up production to 200 dwellings annually. The firm has raised over 35 million euros and employs 90 people. Carné stresses that improving productivity is essential, stating, “The biggest problem this industry is facing is that productivity is stagnant.”
Revolutionizing Construction Processes
Traditionally, construction is fragmented. Architects design buildings and then hand them off to builders for implementation. 011h combines these processes, collecting data on suppliers and costs from the start thus revolutionizing the construction process. Their commitment to sustainable materials, like responsibly sourced timber, reduces carbon emissions to below 400 kg CO2 equivalent per square meter, significantly lower than industry averages.
UK-based AUAR is also pushing boundaries with “micro-factories.” These robot based systems produce modular building units. Co-founder Gilles Retsin explains that the robots can assemble timber floor or wall panels efficiently. AUAR’s model allows builders to pay a fee for micro-factories on-site, improving construction speed and flexibility.
Addressing Labour Shortages
Monumental, based in Amsterdam, addresses the skilled labor shortage with robotic bricklayers. CEO Salar al Khafaji’s team develops robots that automate bricklaying tasks, complementing human workers. This hybrid approach enhances productivity while maintaining quality.
Conclusion: A New Era in Construction
Robots are set to revolutionize the construction industry, addressing labor shortages and enhancing productivity. As firms like 011h, AUAR, and Monumental lead the charge, the future of housing looks promising and sustainable.
