The use of raw earth to build public and private structures has been practiced for thousands of years, with over 1.7 billion people across the globe living in earthen homes. But its integration in urban infrastructure and planning is something we ought to explore more. Raw earth with other materials left to dry and harden … Read more
There is a construction materials company based in Austria that looks to the forgotten practices of the past for inspiration and Sami Akkach, who works as an architect there, tells us what they have been doing lately. PURE Walls are Prefabricated Stabilized Rammed Earth elements, giant blocks that can be used to build structural, load-bearing … Read more
The average person spends around 90% of their life indoors, which means missing out on health benefits associated with sunlight exposure, such as vitamin D absorption, regulation of circadian rhythms, higher energy levels and even improved mood. One way to counter this is to increase the natural lighting in interiors. But too much direct sunlight … Read more
This approximately 260 sq ft, earth sheltered underground Hobbit Hole is within a permaculture-based, sustainable, off-grid village in California. It features colored bottles built into the wall, stained glass windows, center tree pillar with atrium windows above, and medieval Celtic Cross above the Hobbit Hole (outside and atop) giving it a Hobbit Church feeling. You … Read more
Laura Sofía García Canto began collaborating with Plenitud Puerto Rico in August 2020 on bioconstruction-related research projects while completing her civil engineering degree at the University of PR. During her time in school, she collaborated with community-based projects and organizations working for empowerment and sustainability. While working with grassroots organizations following Hurricane María, Laura became … Read more
The Earth Building Academy is offering a new three month round of online courses starting February 20th. This includes: 30+ hours of pre-recorded lectures and hands-on demonstrations, which you can implement directly on your own projects; weekly 60-90 minute live group calls for Q&A’s and consultancy; 2 live hands-on workshops via zoom where you can … Read more