We all know of building a home from felled timber, but living tree! No way. But, growing a home from living trees is not only a dream, but the goal of an architect from the Massachusetts Institute of Technology.
Known as pleaching, the habitat is based on an ancient gardening method that weaves together tree branches to form living archways, lattices or screens. The exterior of the living house is shaped over the course of several decades into a protective crisscross of vines, interspersed with soil pockets and growing plants.
And to insulate against the cold and heat and keep out moisture, a clay and straw composite fills in the gaps. To add to the amazements, the windows will be manufactured from soy-based plastics that would flex with the home as it grows.
Joachim said, “Not only does it do zero damage, but it will hopefully clean the air.”
Via: Discovery News
