Wood-clay construction

Open floor with timber framework in the HORTUS office building in Basel.

Wood-clay construction means environmentally friendly building with locally available materials. In wood and clay construction, we use simple, resource-conserving materials combined with state-of-the-art production technology to create wood-clay constructions – from the initial idea to implementation. At Lehmit, the company specialising in wood-clay construction, we combine the expertise of three partners: the engineering skills of gbd constructive thinking, the clay construction expertise of Lehm Ton Erde and the timber construction expertise of Blumer Lehmann.

Bettina Baggenstos

Responsible for sustainable construction | clay timber construction | VDC | BIM
Co-Founder Lehmit

+41 71 388 51 67
bettina.baggenstos@blumer-lehmann.com

This is wood-clay construction: construction systems made of clay and wood

Wood-clay construction refers to structures in which clay is used for more than just surface finishing. This can involve rammed earth in prefabricated elements. Or it can involve clay ceilings that serve a structural purpose. The Hortus project shows how wood-clay panels were prefabricated from excavated material on site in the field factory and efficiently installed on the construction site.

Detailed view of a clay-wood composite ceiling in the HORTUS building

Our services in wood and clay construction: from concept to implementation

Are you planning a wood-clay construction project? We can help you get started and provide support through all stages:

Client consultation to clarify feasibility and objectives
Preliminary project study for technical and economic evaluation
Specialist planning for construction and details
Engineering for structural analysis and building physics
Development of machines for element production
Research, testing and certification of materials and components

Wood-clay construction is a winning combination

Wood and clay construction relies entirely on natural materials. Renovations and conversions in which existing buildings are supplemented with clay components. Educational buildings that combine clay and wood to offer learning environments with optimised indoor climates. In short: wherever clients prioritise sustainability, healthy living and long-term quality, wood-clay construction is a viable option.