Like the adobe huts that pocked the plains of Mexico hundreds of years ago, Casa Candelaria is built with a rammed-earth technique that uses materials (i.e. soil) excavated directly from the build site. Located outside San Miguel de Allende in Mexico's highlands, the house was designed and built by Cherem Arquitectos, a local firm.
The decision to use local soil in building Casa Candelaria was based on factors beyond just the sustainability of sourcing materials that were directly underfoot. The rammed-earth material is also perfect for insulating the desert highland domicile: during the day, the 50 centimeter thick walls absorb heat, keeping it out of the house, but by the evening, the walls have gathered enough heat that they buffer the inhabitants from the cold desert night.
Casa Candelaria shows how resorting to historical techniques can improve modern attempts at sustainability.
Sustainable Rammed-Earth Houses
Casa Candelareia is Built from Soil Excavated On-Site
Trend Themes
1. Rammed-earth Construction - Using rammed-earth construction techniques can improve sustainability in modern building projects.
2. Local Sourcing - Sourcing materials locally, such as using soil excavated on-site, can contribute to sustainable building practices.
3. Historical Techniques - Resorting to historical techniques can provide innovative solutions for sustainable construction.
Industry Implications
1. Architecture and Design - The architecture and design industry can explore rammed-earth construction as a sustainable building method.
2. Construction and Engineering - The construction and engineering industry can incorporate the use of locally sourced materials in their projects to promote sustainability.
3. Environmental Conservation - The environmental conservation industry can study historical techniques and their potential for improving modern sustainable practices.