Sustainable Construction through Tradition: Inventory of Cob Buildings in the Guérande Peninsula (France)

Abstract

This paper delves into the investigation and inventory of cob buildings within the Guérande Peninsula, employing an interdisciplinary framework merging academic inquiry, fieldwork, and digital cartographic methodologies. Against the backdrop of escalating environmental concerns within the construction sector, raw earth construction emerges as a compelling avenue for sustainable building practices due to its low embodied energy and reversible characteristics. Despite historical prevalence in regions such as northwest France, traditional earth-building techniques have experienced waning prominence with the advent of industrial materials. However, the resurgence of interest in raw earth’s minimal carbon footprint has catalyzed renewed attention towards earth-building methods. Through a meticulous investigation methodology, this study identifies and analyzes 802 potentially old cob buildings, with 46 structures confirmed as cob constructions. Employing statistical analyses of building characteristics, including wall and lift heights, preservation states, and geographical distributions, this research sheds light on the significance of preserving cob heritage amidst rapid urbanization. The findings underscore the imperative for ongoing research and awareness efforts to safeguard these vernacular architectural traditions. By illuminating centuries-old building practices, this research contributes to the scholarly discourse on sustainable construction methodologies and local cultural preservation. Moreover, it underscores the necessity of integrating traditional knowledge systems with contemporary sustainability initiatives to foster resilience and longevity within the built environment.