Join us for a deep dive into the world of rammed earth with Otto Papa of ottocrete, a leading expert blending ancient building methods with modern design. In this episode of Modern Home Mastermind, Shawna and Brittainy uncover Otto’s journey from architecture school to Arcosanti, his hands-on training with masters of the craft, and the innovative projects shaping today’s luxury desert homes.
From understanding soil composition to collaborating with architects and builders, Otto breaks down the science, challenges, and artistry behind the construction of rammed earth. You'll also get a behind-the-scenes look at some of his most striking projects—from luxury boutiques to large-scale architectural installations.
Whether you're a design lover, builder, or modern architecture fanatic, this episode is packed with insights you won’t want to miss.
⏱️ Chapter Timings (Up to 37 Minutes)
00:00 – Welcome to Modern Home Mastermind
00:20 – Introducing Otto Papa of ottocrete
01:10 – What Is Rammed Earth and Why It’s Rare in Luxury Homes
02:00 – Otto’s Journey: From Architecture School to Arcosanti
04:00 – Life at Arcosanti: Design, Building & Neo-Monastic Living
06:00 – Discovering Rammed Earth & Training with the “OG” of the Southwest
07:20 – Rammed Earth 101: Ancient vs. Modern Techniques
09:10 – How Soil is Tested, Mixed & Engineered for Strength
11:00 – The Art and Science of Material Selection (Ireland Project)
13:00 – Unstabilized Rammed Earth & Sustainability Considerations
15:00 – Erosion-Style Earth Walls & European Influences
16:30 – Collaborating With Architects, Builders & Educating Clients
18:00 – High-End Applications: Hermès Boutique Wall Project
20:00 – Color, Pigments & Achieving Brand-Level Precision
21:40 – Rammed Earth “Brick” vs. Full Structural Walls
23:00 – Techniques Behind Fireplaces, Mailboxes & Thin-Wall Designs
24:30 – Benefits of Rammed Earth: Thermal Mass & Passive Cooling
26:00 – Fire Resistance & Global Warming Considerations
27:00 – Prescott Project: Engineering, Rebar & Structural Design
28:40 – Traditional Desert-Inspired Aesthetic & Material Warmth
29:40 – Floating Fireplace Feature Wall (PV Project)
31:20 – Sculptural Firepit + Water Retention Design
33:30 – Large-Scale Work: Teddy Roosevelt Library Wall
35:00 – Rapid-Fire Questions: Design, Tools & Future of AZ Homes
36:20 – Where to Find ottocrete & Episode Wrap-Up
37:00 – Outro
🔗 Connect with Otto Pappa
🌐 Website: https://www.ottocrete.com/
📸 Instagram: @ottocrete
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