Green-Architecture
Prof. Eleftheria Tsakanika, Director of the Building Materials Laboratory at NTUA, presents the lab’s educational and research activities, including student-led projects and case studies focused on earthen and timber construction in Greece. She highlights hands-on workshops, experimental reconstructions like a Minoan mudbrick house, and collaborative initiatives with local communities and Non-Profit Organisations. The session emphasises the value of reviving and scientifically supporting historic building knowledge to meet contemporary environmental and structural challenges.
IN THIS LESSON:
Methodology of the Building Materials Laboratory, School of Architecture, NTUA
TIMMA: Ongoing Research Program and Experimental House at Malia
Overview of Courses at the Building Materials Laboratory
Supervising Research and Student Projects
Hands-On Educational Workshops on Sustainable Materials
Collaborations with Non-Profit Organisations
In this session, partners from PILIKO, Zeta Chrysafaki, Dimitra Kada, and Apostolos Mousourakis have started their presentation with an overview of PILIKO’s mission, connecting sustainable design, traditional knowledge, and local resources through education, research, and consultancy. With strong ties to local communities and universities, PILIKO promotes clay and earth-based construction via hands-on workshops, lifelong learning programs, and architectural projects.
Four completed buildings in Crete, a seminar centre, and three homes, which are designed with timber frames and insulated using light clay or straw bale techniques, were introduced. These projects meet modern structural and regulatory standards and provide exceptional thermal comfort without mechanical cooling. Monitoring results confirm their energy efficiency and indoor climate performance under Mediterranean conditions.
The team highlights the architectural flexibility, environmental benefits, and socioeconomic advantages of this approach, including reduced emissions, low-cost maintenance, support for local economies, and full recyclability. Their ongoing participation in GreeNest opens new possibilities for material innovation, construction standardisation, and professional training across Europe.
IN THIS LESSON:
Overview of PILIKO and its Mission, Dimitra Kada
Discovering the Timber and Masonry Construction Technique in Greece, Apostolos Mousourakis
Structural Systems Using Natural Materials, Zeta Chrysafaki
Non-Load Bearing Construction Techniques, Zeta Chrysafaki
Results and Perspectives, Apostolos Mousourakis
Led by partners from PILIKO, the session focuses on the practical viability and performance of light clay construction systems. Participants discuss real-world challenges and solutions related to cost, regulatory approval, insulation standards, structural safety, and foundations. The conversation highlights the breathable, humidity-balancing qualities of earthen walls and affirms that light clay systems meet modern construction requirements, while offering strong environmental and indoor comfort benefits. The session concludes with a call to action to spread awareness of these sustainable methods, supported by future training plans and ongoing academic collaboration.
KEY TOPICS:
Is Light Clay Construction Cheaper Than Conventional Methods?
Does Light Clay Meet Modern Insulation and Building Regulations?
Mechanical Properties of Light Clay Walls Compared to Conventional Walls
Structural Performance and Real-Life Proof from Occupants
Can Stone Foundations Be Used Instead of Concrete Legally?
Stone Foundations in Heritage Projects: Legally Accepted with Structural Proof; Architecture as Hands-On Sustainability Research
