Jessica Martin has created a shelter in Arcosanti, Arizona that explores the synergy between architecture and environment.

The project is formulated with soils found throughout the Chaparral region of Arizona and was developed through research into desert ecology. Its materials acknowledge both the autochthonous ties to the region and the artificiality of construction. The earthen walls are embedded with a native seed mix, intended to either germinate or be picked away by frugivores, acknowledging the inevitable decay of the building.

Cinders is the thesis project of Jessica Martin at The School of Architecture.

This project has been longlisted in the small building category of Dezeen Awards 2022.

Architect: Jessica Martin

Project: Cinders