A research stream directed at eco-concrete and ag-byproduct materials systems.


The Alternative Masonry Unit (AMU) project is a coordinated effort between team members to provide design, development, distribution channels and support services for widespread adaption of low cost, high performance, and environmentally sustainable building materials for construction. The initial stages of the project will involve enhancements to the existing status of the AMU block material and product development, certified laboratory compression-testing of the block, and construction of a local building project (Domestic Beta). Based on documentation of the Domestic Beta, an instruction and training manual will be developed and post-construction analysis will be performed to allow for further refinements of the system in future.

Domestic Beta: City Slicker Farms in Oakland, CA

This project was initiated by Global Homes International, which donated their research and intellectual property to Architecture for Humanity to further develop the material as a resource for its clients and partners and the larger design and construction community.

The next phase of the project will be an international adaption of the AMU product, including the construction of an International Beta project to further validate and publicize the use of the construction material in the larger market.