PIPES CANYON

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PIONEERTOWN, CALIFORNIA

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A sustainable development designed in collaboration with Ulianda, for non-toxic passivehouse hempcrete homes, with land conservation principles, to leave most of the desert landscape untouched, and to create space for common-use trails.

 

5 Cabins between 800-1200 sqft, on 10 acre sites, with greywater systems and xeriscaping, aligned to the desert climate. 

 

The thermal mass of the hempcrete balances the highs and lows of the intense desert temperatures, and demonstrates the construction technique for those curious about this nearly zero-carbon technique, whose healthy indoor air, fire and pest resistant qualities are unrivalled by high performance buildings.

 

Glamping tents on one of the plots allow for visitors to explore the relative isolation of the canyon, away from the crowds at Joshua Tree, for a more meditative desert experience.