Rammed earth is an ancient construction method in which layers of earth-moist soil are compacted within a formwork to create solid structures. The technique is valued for its sustainability, as it utilises local materials, is fully recyclable, and has climate-regulating properties. The prog/rammed earth residency which was collaboratively hosted by XLab and SustainLab in 2022 explored how robotic fabrication can refine and expand the possibilities of rammed earth by enabling more precise and adaptive applications.

Investigating the synergy between material blends and construction techniques was a primary objective. Through automation and robotics, participants tested how different material mixtures behave under compression and how these variations affect the structural and aesthetic qualities of the final form. They explored techniques for integrating plant fibers, forming hollow structures, and creating intricate three-dimensional geometries. The project aimed to push the boundaries of rammed earth construction by combining traditional knowledge with new technologies, opening up possibilities for innovative, sustainable applications.

To kick off the residency, BurgLabs brought together students, artists, designers, and researchers for Re-Up, a series of workshops, lectures, and excursions. Among the core activities was a three-day rammed earth workshop, conducted by SustainLab in association with BurgMaterial. The workshop began with an excursion led by Dr. Franziska Knoll, focusing on geological and cultural aspects of earth as a building material. Belgian artist Elise Eeraerts then introduced participants to the fundamentals of tamping techniques, followed by hands-on material experiments. On the final day, architect Stefano Mori provided insights into contemporary applications of earthen construction, combining traditional methods with digital fabrication. Alongside workshops, the residency featured guest lectures, including the symposium Gestaltung forscht, which explored different perspectives on design research. A concluding excursion took participants to Switzerland, where they engaged with experts in material research. Stops included soil science discussions at ZHAW, a tour of Zurich University of the Arts’ interdisciplinary workshops, and an exploration of ETH Zurich’s material archive. The journey ended with a visit to Martin Rauch’s rammed earth studio, where students witnessed industrialised rammed earth production and discussed current research in the field.

Four experimental projects emerged from the prog/rammed earth residency, each exploring the potentials of rammed earth in different ways.

Pepe Nitz’s 28 mm challenged the limitations of rammed earth by creating thin, lightweight plates reinforced with natural fibers. The project combined structural stability with a polished terrazzo surface, redefining the material’s aesthetic and functional possibilities.

Johanna Schmidtke’s durchzug explored the air-regulating and purifying properties of clay. Four mineral compositions were tested for water absorption. The designs aim to introduce these moisture-regulating benefits into non-clay buildings through interior design elements, helping maintain a stable humidity level.

Marianne Sellmaier’s ineinander investigated the plasticity and connectivity of rammed earth by combining it with materials like wood. Through form-fitting joints and multiaxial designs, the project created a functional bench, exploring long-term use scenarios and expanding rammed earth’s application beyond traditional architectural contexts.

Anniek Timmermann’s The birds and the bees explored rammed earth as a habitat for small ecosystems. Using parametric design, the project developed modular structures to host species like bees and lichens, while addressing the human willingness to share living spaces with other organisms. The research also focused on automating production to make rammed earth more accessible.