An LA Forum Alt:adena Presentation
Event 4: Materials
Considered ‘alternative’ or ‘green’ methods today, local and on-site materials were used for hundreds of years to build naturally fire-resistant homes that are low in toxics.
The presentations center on rethinking building materials and methods with healthier, eco-friendly interiors, straw bale construction, insulated composite concrete, and SuperAdobe.
Presenters:
Dastan Khalili, CalEarth
Dastan Khalili, President of Cal-Earth Institute of Earth Art & Architecture, began his study of earth architecture at the tender age of 4, accompanying his father Nader Khalili upon his quest for a sustainable solution to the housing crises in the world. He was at Nader's side during every step of the journey, learning and growing along with his father's groundbreaking innovations and discoveries.
Throughout his youth, teens and adulthood, Dastan has been part of innumerable architectural, building and design projects; as well as research, development, scientific and academic lectures and symposiums which culminated in the creation of the patented SuperAdobe earth bag technology and Cal-Earth Institute of today. He has also produced and directed several award-winning documentary feature films of Nader Khalili's work, which are an integral part of the school's educational curriculum.
Dastan Khalili is deeply honored and humbled to have the privilege of carrying on his father’s legacy and vision: global housing solutions which utilize sustainable materials designed to work in harmony with nature, the environment and humanity.
Cal-Earth, the California Institute of Earth Art and Architecture, is a 501 (c)(3) nonprofit organization committed to providing solutions to the human need for shelter through research, development, and education in earth architecture. We envision a world in which every person is empowered to build a safe and sustainable home with their own hands, using the earth under their feet.
Drew Hubbell, Hubbell & Hubbell Architects
Drew Hubbell is the Principal Architect of Hubbell & Hubbell Architects, a San Diego-based firm he founded with his father, renowned artist James T. Hubbell, in 1995. Throughout his career, Drew has combined a deep respect for historic building traditions with a commitment to sustainable design and innovative building methods. His work encompasses custom residences, historic restoration and adaptive reuse, cultural and nature centers, and public and nonprofit projects. Drew has been a pioneer in the use of alternative building materials in Southern California, including straw bale and insulated composite concrete forms. He designed San Diego County’s first permitted straw bale structure, and over the course of over twenty years, he has worked extensively with public agencies to advance the acceptance of this fire-resistant and sustainable building method. In Drew's work, architecture responds thoughtfully to its environment, while bringing together art, craftsmanship, sustainability, and the practical needs of the people who inhabit each space.
ALT:adena is a public event series shining a light on those rethinking their pathway home after the Eaton Fire — and the creativity and expertise making it possible.
Wednesday, October 21, 2026
6-8 PM
ONLINE PRESENTATION
