Compressed earth blocks are a combination of soil, mechanical engineering, and high-density compression capable of transforming the ground of the construction site into structural blocks used to erect resistant, stable, and visually striking walls. The technology combines thermal efficiency with low emissions. Any soil with between 10% and 30% clay can work for producing compacted … Read more
For generations, the Bac Hoa village in Vietnam has been home to the Nung ethnic community, whose traditional rammed-earth houses now carry the warm hues of time. In recent years, Bac Hoa has begun to attract travelers, particularly in spring when bright yellow mustard flowers bloom across the fields, creating picturesque scenes for visitors. The … Read more
The village of Kandovan in Iran is a tourist village that is famous for its scenic beauty and the fact that many of its homes have been made in caves located in cone-shaped rock-formation. The village looks somewhat like a gigantic termite colony. Some of these houses are at least 700 years old and still … Read more
Ebiobambu is a School of Bioarchitecture and Experimental Research and Technology Center for Bamboo in the mountainous region of Rio de Janeiro. They developed an approach that integrates agroforestry cultivation, research on construction techniques, and training of specialized labor. The main species used in Ebiobambu’s projects is Guadua bamboo. one of the best structural bamboos … Read more
A family wants to build a house using the very material from the land. Shovel, bucket, sturdy bags, and physical strength replace heavy equipment. Can merely compacted soil support a complete structure? Loose soil does not support anything. It spreads, gives way, crumbles. The challenge, then, was to convert this raw material into something capable of … Read more
I just got this email from Firespeaking Masonry Heaters and Wood Fired Ovens: Dear reader, This visual document we are publishing today is several years in the making and reflects our effort to help masonry heaters become more a part of vernacular building systems. Whether you are a homeowner, professional heater builder, or architect, it … Read more