Rubble works

There are many reasons not to build with rubble: uncertain material quality, strict building codes, logistics, low aesthetic associations, and time-consuming fabrication are just some. We have only begun approaching the barriers relating to design and fabrication and are far from presenting final solutions. Yet, the rubble reference collection and material analysis reveal rubble's aesthetic potential, the technique overview shows its versatility, and the robotic workflows for pouring and placing demonstrate how digital technologies can make these qualities more accessible. 

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Jammed rubble is more of a concept rather than a finished building system. However, if we improve the structural stability and reduce the vertical displacement, great potential lies in its deployability, recyclability, and simple expression. Some strategies are to design a stronger container, improve the packing strategy, or introduce a sustainable, bio-based binder such as mycelium.

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We hope this project provides reasons for why to build with rubble. A significant outcome is several new research directions that we hope will inspire other architects and researchers to approach the barriers of rubble reuse. We show that, beyond its commodity and environmental potential, rubble offers an aesthetic potential that new materials cannot, and with this, sets the stage for a low-grade material to find its way back into architecture and construction.