Lunch 'n Learn | ICON

The Materials Lab hosted Melodie Yashar, Director of Building Design & Performance at ICON, for a virtual Lunch n’ Learn presentation. Her department focuses on foundational research development related to ICON’s wall system as well as the overall building performance of ICON homes. ICON is an Austin-based construction technologies company pioneering the future of 3D-printed housing for Earth and beyond. Using proprietary 3D printing robotics, software, and advanced materials, ICON is disrupting conventional thinking of constructing from “the ground up.”



The session provided an overview of the company’s goals, construction processes and technologies, and most recent projects. Yashar explained ICON’s construction process using their Vulcan printer on-site as they strive to use their proprietary software and technology to change the homebuilding industry. ICON’s building technologies are faster, more resilient, and produce less waste than traditional stick frame construction methods. Yashar also shared several projects ICON is currently working on around Texas as they continue to explore 3D printing at an architectural scale. To conclude the session, Yashar fielded many questions from students and professionals alike, describing their proprietary mortar-based cement material, wall system performance, and the future of the company.