# 3D-Printed Cave Constructions The ProtoHouse by Softkill Design By Alexandra Serrano | Published 2012-10-24 | Unique Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/protohouse-by-softkill-design References: [dezeen](http://www.dezeen.com/2012/10/23/protohouse-by-softkill-design/) & [softkilldesign](http://softkilldesign.com/) Boasting a look that mimics a cave’s organic construction, the ProtoHouse by Softkill Design is a conceptual house to be built from 3D printed components. Resembling a fibrous mass, this construction was created with an algorithm that mimics bone growth in that it only adds material where it is mostly needed -- along points of stress. With its porous design, the space is prone to water seeping in wet weather conditions, a problem that is resolved with waterproofing along the inner lining of the construction. According to Dezeen, this structure was “designed to cantilever out from a hillside” making for a man-made cave construction. In order to print out a mass this large, Softkill Design has resolved that it must be [printed in sections](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr3d), 31 to be exact, and put together at its permanent site. This one-of-a-kind design is highly modernistic as it takes 3D printing technology to an entirely new realm of possibility. ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 3.3/10 - Popularity: 45% | Activity: 46% | Freshness: 8% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, Europe, Asia ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Unique](https://www.trendhunter.com/unique) > [Bizarre](https://www.trendhunter.com/bizarre) ## Key Themes ### Why This Trend Is Growing - **3D Printing in Construction:** The use of 3D printing technology in construction allows for innovative, custom-built structures like the ProtoHouse, creating disruptive opportunities in the construction industry. - **Algorithmic Design:** The use of algorithms to mimic organic growth patterns, like bone growth, opens up new possibilities for creating efficient and structurally sound designs in various industries. - **Sustainable Architecture:** The porous design of the ProtoHouse and the use of waterproofing solutions showcase the potential for sustainable and eco-friendly architecture in the future. ### Industries Being Reshaped - **Construction:** The construction industry can explore the use of 3D printing technology to create unique and custom-designed structures, opening up new opportunities for architects and builders. - **Design:** The integration of algorithmic design principles in various industries, including architecture and product design, can lead to innovative and efficient solutions. - **Architecture:** The concept of sustainable architecture, with its focus on environmentally friendly practices and materials, can create disruption within the industry by promoting new design approaches and construction methods. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Organically Printed Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/lib-earth-house.md) - [Geometric Cave-Like Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cavelike-homes.md) - [3D-Printed Home Prototypes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/the-tiny-house-lux.md) - [Fully Recyclable 3D-Printed Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/biohome3d.md) - [Cave-Like Folded Residences](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/wild-house.md) - [3D-Printed Ceramic Home Facades](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/ceramic-house.md) - [Multi-Storey 3D-Printed Houses](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/qr3d.md) - [3D-Printed Sturdy Homes](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/cobod.md) - [3D-Printed Hotels](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/3d-printed-hotel.md)