Low-Carbon Concrete Homes

Casa Bendico is a sustainable home in Sicily’s Val di Noto, designed by Paris-based firm Le Penhuel & Associés. Blending eco-conscious design with regional character, the house is built from low-carbon concrete mixed with pozzolana, a volcanic ash from nearby Mount Etna. This material not only reduces emissions but also gives the walls a warm, earthy tone that reflects the local landscape.

Designed to handle wildfires and earthquakes, the home includes solar panels, a passive cooling system, and smart use of natural light to reduce energy use. Local artisans crafted the concrete walls, stone furnishings, and wooden screens, adding unique texture and cultural depth.

Overlooking olive groves, the sea, and Mount Etna, Casa Bendico offers a peaceful, climate-friendly retreat that connects deeply to its environment. The project has earned global recognition and was recently shortlisted for the 2025 Grand Prix AFEX for French architecture abroad.

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