Modular shapes exploring human scale construction

The Brick Project began in 2018 as an experimental approach to human-scale modular construction using two interlocking wooden “bricks.” Developed by Idaaf Architects, these sculptural elements emerged from a design study exploring how a single form could enable the flexible assembly of architectural structures—from pavilions to small dwellings—without the need for mechanical fasteners.

The core concept centers on a modular unit crafted at a 1:1 scale in recycled wood, developed in two primary formats: W30 × W30 × H45 cm and W60 × W30 × H45 cm. Easy to handle and adaptable, the system encourages an intuitive and participatory engagement with the building process. What began as a speculative study of sustainable building methods gradually evolved into a broader design inquiry, merging architectural innovation with vernacular sensibilities.

Over time, the “brick” modules expanded beyond architectural applications. They began to take shape as collectible furniture and sculptural design objects. The Bricks have been explored in locally sourced materials—including adobe, stone, aluminum, and various Georgian woods—while maintaining the original ethos of modularity, raw materiality, and expressive textures.

Each piece remains grounded in the idea of shaping material with intention, offering a poetic alternative to standardized construction and design systems. The Brick Project continues as a platform for ongoing research into low-impact, community-oriented building strategies, combining contemporary aesthetics with traditional craftsmanship and engaging both professionals and artisans.

The Brick Collection – Collectible furniture exploring materials, form and craftsmanship

The IAS & IAM Adobe Bricks 

WHAT IF OUR BUILDINGS GREW FROM THE GROUND BENEATH US?

WHAT IF ANCIENT KNOWLEDGE POWERED A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE?

The rapid growth of the construction industry has provided a number of challenges, not least is the use of materials and process which are harmful to the environment and have accelerated the pace of climate change. Architecture became deadly and we, architects, have a responsibility!  At Idaaf Architects believe that in order to protect the future we need to go back, rediscover the past and rethink the natural intelligence of humans.

In summer 2022, Idaaf Architects held a workshop: ‘Adobe – Research, New Design and Prospects for Use in Modern Construction’. The aim was to explore Georgian traditional Alizi (adobe brick) making methods and experiment with how they could be used in modern architecture. Though Alizi construction is now rare, it remains a powerful example of environmentally conscious design rooted in community, tradition and climate responsiveness. It shows how ancient techniques can still inform sustainable architecture today.

IAM and IAS are two modular adobe bricks created at Idaaf Architects studio as a response to environmental challenges. IA bricks are shaped in molds, then sun-dried for several weeks. It offers excellent insulation and fire resistance, making it a sustainable choice rooted in Georgian architectural tradition. While construction requires physical effort and favorable weather, the process is low-cost and eco-friendly.

Made in adobe-the material well known to the world and Georgian vernacular architecture, these two universal forms fit together easily, require no fasteners or fillers. It allows easy construction of exterior double and interior single partition walls, where door and window openings are easy to arrange. Its colors are natural from the soils that are obtained from the regions of Georgia.

The IAM and IAS bricks are a modern continuation of Georgian Architectural tradition of Adobe, the most ecological building material that we believe can benefit the whole world.

IAM Brick

 L48xW24xH12 cm

Weight: 12.6 kg

Material: Yellow Soil, Hay, Yellow Sand

IAS Brick

L24xW24xH12 cm

 Weight: 7 kg

Material: Green Soil, Hay, Black Sand

WE’RE TURNING GEORGIAN SOIL INTO TOMORROW’S BUILDINGS

At Idaaf Architects, we are working to transform IA Adobe Bricks into a certified, practical building material for modern construction in Tbilisi, Georgia. Our goal is to create a sustainable, affordable alternative to cement blocks by improving the bricks’ resistance to water and weight. We’re currently testing them through small pavilion structures with roof systems to study how they perform under pressure and different weather conditions. By combining traditional techniques with new innovations, we aim to bring this eco-friendly material back into everyday use.

Alizi Installations

Alizi [ალიზი] is the Georgian term for adobe brick—one of the world’s oldest and most sustainable building materials. It is made from a mixture of soil, water, sand, and organic fibers such as hay or straw. To produce Alizi, the mixture is shaped in molds and sun-dried for several weeks. The material provides excellent thermal insulation and fire resistance, making it a sustainable construction method deeply rooted in Georgian architectural tradition. While its production requires physical labor and favorable weather conditions, the process remains low-cost and environmentally responsible.