Architectural studio Ward + Blake created this spectacular rammed-earth home with a green roof nestled on a sprawling property in Squirrel, Fremont County, Idaho. The 5,994-square-foot house has a vegetated roof to enhance insulation, reduce stormwater runoff, and blend seamlessly with the natural landscape. It was built using the architects’ patented EarthWall construction system, which uses post-tension steel as the framework to construct the rammed-earth walls that seem to rise from the soil.
Additional materials used in the building process include corten steel, reclaimed wood, stone, concrete, cedar, and maple. Transparency was a key element in the design process, where large expanses of windows were incorporated into the building envelope, opening into the exterior.
Concrete flooring travels throughout the interiors and extends to the patio, creating a seamless flow and helping blur the boundaries between indoors and out.
Incorporating sustainable design principles into the building process, the structure was oriented to maximize solar heat gain through its energy-efficient windows and high-thermal mass walls.
The structure offers passive solar design and additional energy-efficient features, which include a ground source heat pump that carries water naturally kept at the earth’s core temperature and needs minimal heating and cooling for interior use.
Above: A pass-through fireplace made of reclaimed stone.
Sustainable building materials include reclaimed Douglas fir, which was used in the soffits and ceilings. Reclaimed stone was used for architectural detailing, reinforcing the homeowner’s request to reduce the environmental impact of the building footprint.
Above: Modern living room showcasing sustainable materials such as EarthWall, with a large two-sided fireplace.
Above: This modern bedroom features generous-sized picture windows that capture endless views of farmland and fields.
What We Love: This home’s beautiful use of reclaimed materials and the rammed earth walls create a warm and welcoming natural, organic aesthetic. Large windows and an open layout further enhance the connection to nature, bringing abundant natural light and stunning views.
Tell Us: What do you think of this rammed earth design? Do you like the look? Let us know why or why not in the comments section below!
Note: Have a look at a couple of other inspiring properties made of rammed earth presented here on One Kindesign: A modern cabin in the woods with glorious views of the Teton Mountains and See this remarkable rammed earth house nestled on a Texas ranch.
Above: The architect custom-fabricated these slatted sliding interior doors.
PHOTOGRAPHER Roger Wade
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