Eco materials

Coconut tiles, fungus bricks, energy-efficient stones: the future of architecture is sustainable, and these are the eco-materials we should look into.

The future is green, and architecture is no exception. As sustainable and ecological options find their way in every field, architects – and owners too – are on a mission to identify materials that make construction sustainable, that is, eco-materials. We are not simply talking about natural products free of chemical compounds. To be classified as such, eco-materials also need to minimize the environmental impact of their manufacture and handling.

If at first glance these seem difficult requirements to meet, here are 5 eco-materials to consider in future constructions:

Wood:

It is no surprise, but wood is a renewable biodegradable material, as long as it is obtained in a sustainable, controlled way and it is not processed with toxic varnishes. Here’s a tip: varieties that are naturally rich in resins are always a go-to. 

Bamboo:

With its exotic touch, today it is a very common material. It’s good news: since it can grow up to 1.22m per day and is stronger than steel, bamboo’s employment in construction is very eco-friendly too. 

Vegetable residues:

Palm trees, citrus fruits, mulberry trees, or reeds: every branch you get from the pruning of these trees can be turned in agglomerated particle boards. But it gets better. Coconut shells are now being turned into tiles, and crop waste is used for panels. 

Mycelium:

Mycelium is the vegetative part of mushrooms. When it dries, it gets incredibly strong. This is why it is used, combined with farm waste, for organic bricks for temporary and compostable constructions.

Natural stone: enduring life-cycle, durability, ease of care and maintenance, recyclability… these are only a few of the features that make the natural stone more sustainable than other building materials. Moreover, fa?ades clad in natural stone require less heat, thus making the house more energy-efficient and reducing the emissions of CO2 into the atmosphere.

For more information on the properties of natural stone, discover our selection on our website.