Rammed Earth Construction

Compacting earth into solid walls.

Overview

Rammed earth construction uses earth and formwork for durable, sustainable walls with high thermal mass.

Core Characteristics

• Durable and sustainable.
• High thermal mass.
• Local material use.

Notable Examples

• Great Wall of China (China, 221 BCE, rammed earth sections).
• Nk’Mip Desert Cultural Centre (Canada, 2006, modern rammed earth).

Architectural Connections

• Traditional: Vernacular focus.
• Cultural: Sustainable buildings.
• Vernacular: Core movement.

Influence and Legacy

Led by David Easton, it promotes eco-friendly construction.

Related Concepts & Techniques

Adobe Construction (technique), Sustainability (theory), Wall (element), Eco-Architecture (movement)