Madison, WI – Quarra Stone recently welcomed Shelby Doyle, Associate Professor of Architecture at Iowa State University, and her students for an exclusive tour of its facilities. Led by Steven Rousseau, Quarra’s Supply Chain Director, the visit was part of the students’ hands-on exploration of sustainable design and construction using waste materials.
As part of their initiative, the students will select two tons of stone from Quarra’s yard to transport back to Iowa, where they will repurpose it for an innovative project. Their focus is on designing and building a functional structure using reclaimed materials, with the goal of supporting agricultural workers at In Harmony Farm.
The project will incorporate various sustainable elements, including seating or low-stacked walls made from Quarra’s stone offcuts. Additional materials will include 3D-printed components developed from a blend of Sika products, waste ground wind turbine blades, and corn stover ash, along with bricks created from similar recycled materials. The structure may also feature a wooden overhead element, adding to its environmentally conscious design.
By integrating these innovative materials, the Iowa State team aims to push the boundaries of sustainable architecture while addressing real-world needs. Quarra Stone is proud to support this initiative, fostering collaboration between industry and academia to promote environmentally responsible construction practices.
Stay tuned for more updates as this exciting project unfolds.
