This global award aims at promoting the aesthetic properties, the construction advantages and the environmental benefits of 40 buildings conceived and built with earth, plant fibres or both.

Following on from the TERRA Award in 2016, and the FIBRA Award in 2019, this third edition sheds light on the combination of materials in contemporary architecture. This new event will allow the greater public to discover bio-sourced and mineral materials, while encouraging the development of local industries. Applications are free of charge and open until 3 March 2021.

Promises made by governments to fight climate change call for a considerable reduction of the environmental footprint of existing and future constructions. This can be achieved through the use of earth and rapid growth plants; when combined, they drive down the exploitation of non-renewable materials and the energy consumption on the entire life cycle of buildings. Using bio-sourced and mineral resources can lead to the creation of many jobs and boost local economies.

Thousands of buildings in rammed earth, adobe, cob, CEB, as well as bamboo, reed or straw are being built all over our planet and attracting the attention of medias and professionals. The TERRAFIBRA Award wants to put the spotlight on the most inspiring ones. The objective is to reward outstanding projects while praising the courage of clients who have selected bio-sourced and mineral materials, the creativity of designers and the know-how of craftsmen and contractors.

Applications open from 3 November 2020

The TERRAFIBRA Award is open to new or renovated buildings, built on any continent, with a significant quantity of earth and/or plant fibres, and completed after January 2010. Candidates can apply online until 3 March 2021, on Application TERRAFIBRA Award.

There are 10 categories:

  • Local development

  • Public cultural facilities

  • Public education and sports facilities

  • Commercial buildings

  • Collective housing

  • Individual housing

  • Rehabilitation

  • Interior design

  • Installation art (exterior or interior)

  • Educational project

Buildings with wooden structures are not eligible as they are already the focus of many awards. This award relates to all earthen building techniques: rammed earth, adobe, cob, CEB, etc. and techniques involving the use of plant fibres: bamboo, reed, hemp, flax, straw, seagrass, mycelium, seaweed, etc. A wood structure project can be eligible if the wood is combined with one or several bio-sourced materials.

40 finalists, 10 winners, a travelling exhibition and a book

In May 2021, a first jury will choose 40 finalist buildings that are composed of earth and/or plant fibres, offer innovative solutions, promote local resources and know-how while taking into account the aesthetics of the building. These projects will have international exposure through the travelling exhibition and an associated book.

In September 2021, the jury of honour will choose a winning project among the 40 projects, in each of the 10 categories.

The World Heritage Centre, which collaborates closely with CRAterre within the framework of the World Heritage Earthen Architecture Program, encourages everyone to join this global award.

How to apply?
Online applications should be submitted before 3 March 2021 on Application TERRAFIBRA Award. Rules are available here: Regulations TERRAFIBRA Award 2021

Contact : Louise LEMOINE at louise.lemoine@lesgrandsateliers.fr