Earth Aftershock: A Housing Reconstruction Proposal Rooted in Seismic Resilience and Traditional Practice (Ouirgane, Morocco)

On September 8, 2023, an earthquake struck Morocco’s Al Haouz province in the High Atlas Mountains, where earthen construction has long reflected adaptation to local climate and geography. For reconstruction, concrete quickly emerged as the default material, seen as fast and regulation-compliant, yet contributing to the loss of threatened heritage. Standardized plans were widely implemented under time pressure, often misaligned with local needs. Despite these choices aimed at accelerating reconstruction, many families remain in temporary shelters, facing harsh conditions and bureaucratic delays. In response to this situation—while acknowledging it only addresses part of the complex post-disaster reality—this project proposes an incremental, seismic-resistant housing system built primarily from site-sourced materials. To illustrate one possible implementation, a site in Ouirgane was selected. The process begins with a seismic-resistant core in rammed earth (pisé), a technique suited to the region’s soil and enabling reuse of earth from collapsed walls. This initial structure allows for rapid yet dignified resettlement and can be progressively extended according to evolving needs and means. Additional volumes connect through lightweight elements, offering spatial flexibility without compromising seismic safety.  Rooted in local materials and practices, this approach reduces costs, limits environmental impact, and supports local economies by reviving traditional knowledge.