materials

In our work we often start from the standpoint of building materials. For us, the materials should be economical, low carbon, climate responsive and locally sourced. As part of our practice, we research individual building material to learn and their historical uses and explore future applications.

Black and white photo of a stone wall made of irregularly shaped rocks stacked together.

THATCH

Close-up view of dry, brown straw.

STRAWBALE

Black and white image of rammed earth surface with horizontal striations.
Close-up of a pile of dry, brown hay.
Broken concrete or paving stones with textured patterns on some pieces, scattered on the ground.
Close-up of a yellow painted surface using organic pigment.

NATURAL PAINT

Two large yellow mining trucks on a grey excavation site with a massive black and white coal wall in the background.

studios

MONTANA CONSTRUCTION ECOLOGIES | Our ARCH 551 Visiting Scholar Advanced Architectural Studio at Montana State University explored the environmental and social impacts of industrialized raw material extraction for construction, focusing on Montana's significant mining industry. The studio examined the role of materials like copper, silver, gypsum, and molybdenum, and addressed the global mining boom for elements supporting the green economy. Students considered if and how transitioning to renewable energy and local resources can shape a more conscientious, post-carbon architecture, exploring material sourcing, and the social and political implications of using non-industrial materials in building design.