Case Study 1: The Caretakers Home

Commission Criteria: The client expressed a deep desire for materials that embodied the essence of their natural state. Their vision entailed creating a building that seamlessly blended with and embraced the surrounding land, becoming an integral part of its environment. The goal was to design a structure that not only occupied the land but harmoniously emerged from it, paying homage to its inherent beauty and fostering a profound connection with the natural world. By prioritizing materials that retained their authentic qualities, we aimed to bring this vision to life, crafting a testament to the symbiotic relationship between architecture and its environment.

In accordance with the guiding principle of “From the land,” we embarked on a process that involved quarrying and processing clay directly on-site to create the exquisite earth plaster walls and floors. With great reverence for the natural elements, we deliberately maintained the clay’s innate color, allowing its organic hues to shine through. The only exception was the application of a linseed oil sealer, carefully chosen to enhance and protect the floor’s integrity while preserving its authentic character. This meticulous approach ensured that the final result celebrated the raw beauty of the land, showcasing a harmonious integration of materials that honored the site’s inherent qualities.

Elements of interests-

• Exterior and Interior Earth Plaster
• Insulated with Rockwool insulation
• All Electric appliances
• Electric heating and cooling.

Rockwool and earth plaster are two sustainable building materials that play a crucial role in promoting environmentally conscious construction practices.

Rockwool, also known as mineral wool or stone wool, is a versatile insulation material derived from volcanic rock or recycled slag. It offers exceptional thermal insulation properties, reducing energy consumption and minimizing heat loss in buildings. Additionally, Rockwool is fire-resistant, non-combustible, and sound-absorbing, contributing to enhanced safety and acoustic comfort. Its production process involves utilizing abundant and natural resources, making it a sustainable alternative to traditional insulation materials. By incorporating Rockwool into building projects, we can improve energy efficiency, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and create more comfortable and sustainable living spaces.

Earth plaster, on the other hand, embraces the use of clay-rich soil as a natural and renewable construction material. It has been utilized for centuries and offers several sustainable benefits. Earth plaster is abundant, locally available, and requires minimal energy for extraction and processing. By utilizing earth plaster, we minimize the ecological impact associated with traditional building materials while creating a healthier indoor environment. Clay possesses excellent thermal mass properties, promoting temperature regulation and reducing the need for artificial heating and cooling. Moreover, earth plaster is non-toxic, breathable, and has the ability to regulate humidity, contributing to improved indoor air quality and occupant well-being.

Both Rockwool and earth plaster align with the principles of sustainability, resource efficiency, and environmental responsibility. By incorporating these materials into our construction projects, we can reduce the carbon footprint, enhance energy performance, and create spaces that prioritize both ecological stewardship and human comfort. These sustainable building materials pave the way for a greener and more resilient future, demonstrating that construction can be both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible.