Challenges and Solutions for Scalability of Affordable Housing: A Literature Review on 3D Printed Construction in Kuwait

Abstract

This study presents a systematic literature review exploring the challenges and solutions for scaling 3D printing in affordable residential construction in Kuwait. This review explores the urgent need to alleviate housing shortages through faster, cost-effective, and sustainable building approaches, highlighting the potential of additive manufacturing. Guided by the PRISMA framework, this review synthesizes findings from 20 key sources selected from an initial pool of 141 studies. The analysis identifies major scalability challenges—high material costs, limited supply chain readiness, complex regulatory frameworks, environmental constraints, and technical limitations—and evaluates proposed solutions such as geopolymer concrete, advanced printing technologies, and policy reforms. While this study does not include empirical data, it offers a comprehensive synthesis of the existing literature to inform policymakers and industry leaders about the potential of 3D printing to address Kuwait’s housing crisis.