Earth and sand replace steel and concrete for sustainable construction in this colorful dome community!
The superadobe method involves layering long fabric tubes and bags packed with earth and other organic materials like straw to form compact structures. The shady interior and earth-based materials keep the domes cool during the day and regulate temps at night. The thick walls absorb the sun’s energy and radiate stored heat when temperatures drop, making the buildings energy-efficient. Between the domes, there are shared spaces for gathering, relaxing, and playing. Located on Hormuz Island in Iran, these domes are giving an ancient building technique a comeback that’s more cost-efficient and puts less strain on the planet.
