Dutch startup Monumental employs robots for bricklaying
The construction industry, valued at approximately $2 trillion annually in the U.S. alone, presents ample opportunities for disruption fueled by automation. Much of the work in construction involves strenuous, repetitive, and sometimes hazardous tasks—ideal challenges for industrial robotics to address. Additionally, the diverse array of challenges within construction allows for multiple startups to operate in the space without direct competition.
While bricklaying robots are not a new concept, Hadrian X is currently one of the most well-known players in the field, specializing in building structures with large concrete masonry blocks. Amsterdam-based Monumental, on the other hand, focuses on red clay bricks, a more familiar material in construction.
Founded in 2021 by the duo behind data visualization firm Silk (now part of Palantir), Monumental has already conducted limited pilots in the Netherlands, including the construction of the 15-meter exterior of an office building. The startup has established partnerships with 25 contractors, including those involved in low-income housing projects.
Although I can’t provide firsthand insight into the effectiveness of Monumental’s system beyond video demos, the company appears to address the construction challenges from multiple angles. This approach includes an autonomous cart capable of handling heavy payloads, as well as another robot for spreading liquid mortar and placing bricks.
CEO Salar al Khafaji explains, “At Monumental, we’re working to help the industry meet these challenges. Our agile, intelligent, and adaptable robots and software blend human expertise with robotic efficiency in a way that the industry has never seen before.”
In celebration of its debut, Monumental announces a significant $25 million funding round, led by Plural and Hummingbird, with participation from Northzone, Foundamental, and NP-Hard Ventures. The funding will be allocated towards hiring, scaling manufacturing, and expanding the capabilities of its robots to handle various types of bricks and blocks.
