Lib Work, in collaboration with Arup and Italian 3D-printing pioneer WASP, has completed the Lib Earth House Model B in Yamaga, Kumamoto Prefecture. This single-story, 100-square-meter dwelling is designed to return to the earth at the end of its life. Built entirely from a cement-free mixture of earth, lime, and natural fibers, the biodegradable and renewable residence sets a new standard in sustainable construction.
“It does not rely on cement, but instead uses earth, lime, and natural fibers as its main raw materials,” explained Lib Work in a statement. “All of these materials are abundant on Earth, renewable, and have a low environmental impact. We have developed a unique compounding technology that achieves the strength and workability required for a building material. It is a new option that supports sustainable architecture.”
Compared to traditional concrete construction, the Lib Earth House reduces the CO₂ emissions by 50% for a 100-square-meter build, outperforming timber in some lifecycle scenarios. The proprietary mix was shaped into curved walls with WASP’s large-scale 3D printer, creating irregular geometries while achieving five times the strength of Lib Work’s previous partially cement-based model.
The home boasts an off-grid power system – a combination of solar generation and Tesla’s Powerwall battery. It is also possible to control appliances remotely with an integrated IoT technology. Embedded wall sensors enable continuous temperature, humidity, and structural integrity tracking, which allows to detect condensation or material deterioration early.
The layout, organized around a central courtyard, brings natural light and ventilation, channeling the project’s harmony with seasonal rhythms. By blending digital fabrication with an ancient, organic building medium, Lib Earth House Model B offers not only a distinctive architectural form but also a blueprint for regenerative housing that minimizes landfill waste and closes the loop on environmental impact.
