1.2 — Provision
Soil in architecture
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Why choose soil for building?
Soil-based materials have long been used in construction for practical and environmental reasons. A key factor is availability. In many regions, soil can be obtained directly from nearby fields, pits, or construction sites, making it a readily accessible building material. In contrast, alternatives such as stone or timber may be scarce or require long-distance transport. Using locally available soil therefore reduces both costs and effort.
Another reason lies in the material properties of earthen building materials. Loam walls, for example, have high thermal mass, allowing them to absorb heat during the day and release it slowly over time, helping to stabilise indoor temperatures. Loam can also regulate indoor humidity by absorbing and releasing moisture, contributing to a comfortable indoor climate.
Soil-based construction is also valued for its cost efficiency. Because earthen materials often require little processing and can be sourced locally, construction can be carried out with relatively low financial investment. In many regions, building knowledge has been passed down through generations, enabling communities to construct houses using locally available skills and materials.
Earthen construction is currently attracting renewed interest in many parts of the world, including Europe. One reason is resource efficiency: soil-based materials often require less energy to produce than highly industrial materials such as cement or steel. This is increasingly relevant because cement production alone is responsible for a significant share of global carbon dioxide (CO₂) emissions. In addition, loam components can often be reused or recycled simply by adding water and reshaping the material.
At the same time, the extraction and use of construction materials can also create environmental pressures. Sand and gravel extraction may damage river and coastal ecosystems, while urban expansion seals fertile soils beneath roads and buildings. These examples show that soils are not only providers of materials but also limited resources that require careful and sustainable management.
© Modern house built - among other materials - with loam, by Sabine Huber, BOKU University
Side note: The house is still under construction in 2026.