This project investigates the use of rammed earth (R.E.) construction for the fabrication of discrete modular blocks, positioning the method as a viable and sustainable alternative for contemporary building practices. Rammed earth is traditionally valued for its low embodied energy, thermal performance, and ability to utilize site-specific materials—qualities that align well with the urgent need for environmentally responsible construction. In this study, all raw materials were sourced locally, with a particular focus on the diverse soil typologies found across Kuwait. Through systematic testing and refinement, over 30 unique R.E. mix formulations were developed, each reflecting different clay, silt, and sand ratios found in various regions.

Rather than relying on cement as a stabilizer—as is common in many contemporary R.E. applications in the U.S.—this project intentionally excluded it, in response to the significant carbon footprint associated with concrete production. Instead, natural additives such as fibers and plant-based binders were introduced to enhance strength and cohesion. This shift not only reduces emissions but also aligns with regenerative building principles, pushing for a truly low-impact material strategy.

Special attention was given to the full workflow of ramming, drying, and hardening the blocks under Kuwait’s extreme climatic conditions. The process begins with the precise preparation and layering of soil mixtures into compacting molds, followed by manual ramming in successive layers to achieve maximum density and cohesion. Once removed from the mold, the blocks enter a critical drying phase—exposed to ambient air, but shaded to prevent rapid surface cracking caused by direct sun and heat. This phase requires careful monitoring, as the arid environment can accelerate moisture loss unevenly, compromising structural integrity. The final stage, hardening, is a gradual process influenced by both temperature and humidity fluctuations, during which the blocks continue to gain strength and stability over time. This end-to-end workflow was refined through repeated cycles of testing and observation, allowing for adjustments in timing, moisture content, and additive ratios to ensure resilience in Kuwait’s harsh outdoor conditions.

The project proposes a scalable framework for discrete rammed earth construction tailored to arid and hyper-local contexts by grounding this research in material experimentation and real-world exposure. It contributes to a growing body of knowledge that reconsiders traditional techniques through the lens of modern environmental and material challenges.