In Chonburi, Thailand, architect Peeraya Suphasidh tried using the ancient technique of rammed earth, thinking that the local building industry could learn something of value. It has generally been disregarded for its labor intensive and time-consuming nature.
In finding the right material composition that would be suitable for the tropical climate with high humidity and a harsh monsoon season, the final mixture comprised of an addition of 10% concrete to stabilize the compressed earth components. Samples of earth were collected from different parts to the country to create shifting shades and hues for the building’s facade.
They had to use reinforced concrete columns and beams, since rammed earth is not a certified load bearing material in Thailand. The 2 years construction process resulted in a three story building, with 196 square meters (2110 sf).
The building took its shape in layers, with a pattern of color that reflects a variation of terrain from the different places.
Its 35cm (14″) walls shield the interior from the sun rays while funneling residual heat upward, vented and carried away at the rooftop level which is protected by light roof.
One can look at the expanse of the sea and take in the breeze.
The building is meant to be a flexible mixed-use space, with the possibility of having a small kitchenette on the ground level to service a cafe operation, or gathering space for visitors as well as the locals. The openings of the building engage its surroundings, its back view of town while the front faces the ocean.
The building has mechanical temperature control only at the ground and the second level’s low-ceiling room; the other spaces are open to the environment. Drains are installed on all floors for the time the building expects to face heavy tropical monsoon rains.
RevivYou can read the original article at www.architectmagazine.com
Certainly too labor intensive for mass produced development, but for custom houses and other buildings, rammed earth is a great option. Judging by the pictures shown above, rammed earth has good potential for small apartment houses and rows of townhomes, of which many North American cities could use more, particularly with shops without a few hundred meters of the residential buildings! In fact, I could easily see a scenario in which rammed earth (or some other alternative construction material) could be used for the construction of small, 3 to 5 storey apartment blocks where the ground floor contains commercial and recreational spaces, while the second, third, fourth and fifth floors have a few units each, like four to eight apartments per floor. Within the same neighborhood, I could easily see 2 to 4 storey townhouses with private backyards, also made of rammed earth or some other alternative material.