Fischer, Jeanne-FrançoiseWeber, RasaHanna Wübbe Centeno2023-07-192025-11-282025-11-282022https://hdl.handle.net/20.500.14938/885This research aims to rediscover and reinvent the use of earth as a building material in contemporary Western European architecture. Despite its numerous physical qualities, earth is often overlooked due to its association with poverty and underdevelopment. The research methodology involves analyzing the composition and technical behavior of earth, examining its historical use in construction, and investigating its availability and suitability in different regions. The study also explores rammed earth construction and its properties and weaknesses. Two case studies showcasing the implementation of earth in contemporary architecture are presented. The research concludes with a proposal to renovate a single-family house in Seville, Spain, into a hotel using earth as the primary construction material. Keywords: earth as a building material, contemporary architecture, rammed earth construction, sustainability, Western EuropeTable of Contents 1. INTRODUCTION 1.1 Problem Definition and Research Aim 1.2 Methodology 2. EARTH AS MATERIAL 2.1 Composition 2.2 Experiment 2.3 Earth as Building Material 2.3.1 Short history of Western Europe construction techniques 2.3.2 Construction methods 2.3.3 Prejudices 2.4 Locality 3. RAMMED EARTH 3.1 Method and Explanation 3.2 Technical Characteristics 3.2.1 Properties 3.2.2 Weaknesses/ challenges 3.3 Sensorial Experience 3.4 Future Use and Technological Innovations 3.5 Case Study 3.5.1 Vier Arquitectos- Piscina Municipal de Toro 3.5.2 Martin Rauch- Kapelle der Versöhnung in Berlin 4. DESIGN PROJECT- "HOTELITO DE HELIÓPOLIS" 5. CONCLUSION BIBLIOGRAPHYengIn Copyright - Educational Use Permittedhttps://rightsstatements.org/vocab/InC-EDU/1.0/Contemporary ArchitectureRammed Earth ConstructionSustainabilityWestern EuropeEarth As A Building MaterialThesis