Scientists have found that recycled glass and lime can strengthen compressed earth blocks. This could be a sustainable alternative to cement for eco-friendly, durable construction materials. Compressed earth blocks are produced by mixing soil with water and compacting the material under high pressure. Cement is commonly added to improve the blocks’ mechanical properties, but its production … Read more
At 14,000 ft in Kashmir, India, where the winds and weather are harsh, there’s a bunker inspired by traditional sandbag construction. Designed by R+D Studio, the material is Silica Composite Hollow Blocks, which are made up of 80 percent foundry dust and 20 percent plastic waste. The bunker was assembled in just three days, with … Read more
As temperatures rise across Malaysia, highland refuges are warming too. Yet a small forest-based initiative is quietly showcasing resilience. “Gunung Pulai used to feel cooler while hiking, but now it’s no different from the lowlands,” said a clerk at the neighborhood convenience store. Villagers say the weather has become increasingly unpredictable, affecting crops, water access, … Read more
Belton High School in Texas has won more championships in tiny home construction than any other school in the country. Could a team of rookies defend the title? The plumber, the mason, the electrician and the carpenter arrived a full hour early to collect their blueprints. They had two days in June to build an … Read more
Using locally sourced and some imported resources, participants at an earthen bench building workshop worked together to create three benches during the 2025 Silver City CLAY Festival. “Benches or pizza ovens are such a great way to get your hands dirty, to learn more easily, because it doesn’t take a lot of material, unlike building … Read more
Hazelmead is the UK’s largest completed cohousing development, designed by Barefoot Architects for Bridport Cohousing. There are 53 affordable, net-zero carbon homes—mixing flats and terraced houses—along car-free streets, shared vegetable gardens, and a community microgrid with solar panels and battery storage. Built to rigorous sustainability standards, the timber-framed buildings have passive solar orientation, high insulation, … Read more