Building with Earth

We believe that the most inspiring, sustainable buildings are ones that utilise the resources immediately available and are in tune with the surrounding natural systems and ecology. They can be crafted from the very ground we stand on, literally. Earth has been used as a building material for millennia, yet modern innovations in rammed earth and timber construction are making it one of the most forward-thinking approaches to sustainable architecture today.

Why Build with Earth?

There is something deeply grounding, both physically and emotionally, about constructing with earth. It connects us to nature, fosters a sense of place, and offers a low-carbon alternative to conventional construction materials. Unlike energy-intensive steel and concrete, earth and timber are renewable, locally sourced, and have minimal environmental impact. They provide superior thermal performance, creating homes that are naturally cool in summer and warm in winter, reducing reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems. The material’s natural character also eliminates the need for additional finishes, embracing an aesthetic that is both raw and refined.

Using On-Site Materials with Rammed Earth

Rammed earth is a striking, durable, and high-performance material that embraces the use of on-site resources, reducing transportation costs and environmental impact. By compacting layers of locally sourced damp earth, sand, and clay, sometimes stabilised with lime or cement, within formwork, we create walls that are both visually stunning and structurally resilient.

Using the very soil from a building site ensures harmony with the surrounding landscape, integrating natural colour variations and textures unique to the location. This approach not only enhances sustainability but also fosters a strong connection between the structure and its environment. The material’s natural character eliminates the need for additional finishes, celebrating an aesthetic that is both raw and refined.

Undertaking testing of chalk samples for the rammed chalk walls in our Terracette house project

The process of building the rammed chalk walls for our Chalk house project.

Innovative approaches to using timber

Timber is revolutionising modern sustainable architecture, offering structural versatility and environmental benefits that make it a key player in innovative construction. Engineered timber solutions like cross-laminated timber (CLT) and glulam provide exceptional strength, allowing for large, open-plan spaces while maintaining a low carbon footprint. Timber's lightweight yet robust nature enables rapid prefabrication and precision engineering, reducing material waste and speeding up construction timelines.

Alongside rammed earth walls which can be load-bearing, engineered timber can be used to create sculptural, high-performance structures that are both aesthetically striking and environmentally responsible.

Using timber innovatively in combination with load bearing rammed chalk walls to minimise the amount of steel and concrete in a project

Inspiration for Your Project

Consider a home where solid rammed earth walls provide natural insulation and timber-framed openings bring in abundant daylight. A living space where the raw textures of earth and wood create a sense of warmth and authenticity. Beyond their practicality, these materials reflect a deep connection to the landscape and a commitment to sustainable, lasting design.

At Barefoot Architects, we’re passionate about pushing boundaries while staying rooted in nature. If you’re considering a new build or renovation, we’d love to help you explore how rammed earth and timber can shape your vision. Let’s build something enduring, something that feels like it truly belongs.

Interested in exploring sustainable materials for your next project? Get in touch, we’d love to hear from you.