From sculptural architecture, to earthen paints or plasters, to earth ovens or artwork, Portland, Oregon-based Earthen Hand Natural Building is at the front of the growing interest in earthen building techniques.
Artist Scott Howard not only designs and builds the company's architectural scale sculptures, ceramic art, stained glass windows, and custom furniture, he conducts natural building workshops. The video above shows some of the techniques used in earthen building.
Implications - Earthen Hand proves that common materials can yield extraordinary results. As environmental awareness rises, so too do ways to reduce waste and reuse materials. Sometimes this means revisiting traditional, “primitive†practices to discover their potential to address modern needs in an environmentally sustainable way.
Key Themes Behind This Trend
- Earthen Building Techniques
- Exploring and adopting traditional, 'primitive' practices for modern, environmentally sustainable construction methods.
- Reuse and Waste Reduction
- Innovative ways to reduce waste and repurpose common materials for extraordinary results in construction and design.
- Environmental Awareness
- Rising consciousness about environmental issues driving the demand for eco-friendly building techniques and materials.
Where This Applies
- Architecture and Construction
- Opportunity for architects and construction professionals to integrate earthen building techniques and sustainable practices into their projects.
- Art and Design
- Exploration of sculptural, ceramic, and stained glass art forms inspired by and aligned with natural building techniques.
- Sustainable Living
- Creation of environmentally friendly living spaces by utilizing earthen building techniques and repurposing materials.
