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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