HS2 Excavation Clay Transformed into Sustainable Station Tiles

Designers Bahbak Hashemi-Nezhad and Rafael El Baz have innovatively repurposed 12 tonnes of clay excavated from the Old Oak Common site, part of the HS2 high-speed rail project, into a unique collection of wall tiles. This creative reuse not only highlights a sustainable approach to construction but offers a glimpse into the future of material sourcing and architectural design.

What Happened
The Sweet Terrain project, developed by Hashemi-Nezhad and El Baz, employs traditional biscuit moulds to craft tiles from clay unearthed during the construction of Old Oak Common station. This initiative is part of a broader sustainability effort within the HS2 project, the UK's largest infrastructure undertaking, aimed at reducing waste and showcasing innovative material use. The tiles, resembling biscuits due to the moulding technique, will serve as an aesthetic feature within the station, blending functionality with artistic expression. The designers' approach underscores an important shift towards sustainable practices in large-scale construction projects by creatively reusing materials that would otherwise contribute to landfill.

What This Means for Your Business
For AECM industry professionals, this project exemplifies a strategic approach to sustainability that can be integrated into future bids and designs. By adopting similar practices, companies can enhance their competitive positioning, particularly in government contracts that increasingly prioritize environmental impact. The reuse of excavated materials can lead to cost savings by reducing waste disposal costs and sourcing expenses. Moreover, this aligns with compliance requirements under environmental regulations and sustainability certifications, potentially improving ROI through enhanced brand reputation and customer appeal.

What US Operators Should Watch
As the demand for sustainable construction practices grows, US operators should monitor developments in material reuse technologies and their applications in large infrastructure projects. Upcoming federal funding opportunities and procurement windows may favor projects that demonstrate innovative use of materials. Additionally, keeping abreast of compliance requirements such as the NIST standards for sustainable construction can provide a competitive edge. Operators should also be prepared for potential shifts in material costs and availability as these practices become more widespread.

Source: https://www.dezeen.com/2026/09/14/sweet-terrain-bahbak-hashemi-nezhad-rafael-el-baz/. Read the original story ->