Archaeological endeavors aimed at exploring the civilizations of the past have revealed a commonality across the world. A form of architecture developed independently on every continent. Evidence shows that Neolithic communities used fertile soils and alluvial clay to construct humble abodes, creating humankind’s first durable and solid building material. Earth architecture was born at a very early age in human history. The techniques soon suffered a gradual decline as lifestyles changed, cities grew, and industrialized materials flourished. Does earth architecture have a place in the 21st-century world?
The current ecological crisis has sparked a renewed interest in ancient traditions, especially among architects. The need for reliable and sustainable eco-architecture has led many international architects to explore vernacular eco-construction. A common belief is that vernacular practices are embedded in their time, unable to find a place in the contemporary built environment. However, many examples across the world show how knowledgeable artisans are capable of re-utilizing their skills in new ways.
