This 1-bedroom residence in Jamul, CA, is a recreation of a building at the Ilan Lael Foundation, where our principal architect, Drew Hubbell, grew up. The owner fell in love with this building, originally designed by Drew and his father, James Hubbell, and desired an exact replica. This approach streamlined the permitting process and construction documentation, ensuring a seamless transition from concept to construction. The walls are constructed from Insulated Concrete Forms (ICCF) and the roof utilizes foam core sandwich panels. Below is an overview of these materials and their benefits.
ICCF: Building blocks made from recycled Styrofoam, cement, and other materials. Stacked and filled with concrete and rebar.
  • Made with recycled materials.
  • Offers design versatility – can be used to create curved walls.
  • 4-hour fire rating (meaning the material can withstand fire for 4 hours while maintaining structural integrity).
  • High thermal insulation.
  • High acoustical insulation.
  • Resists high winds and hurricanes.
  • Termite and insect resistant.
  • Low air infiltration rates meaning improved air quality.
Foam Core Sandwich Panels: Prefabricated panels with a core of recycled expanded polystyrene (EPS) and a welded wire space frame. Field-applied cement (shotcrete) after panels are put in place. You can see the exposed wire in the photos as the shotcrete has not been sprayed yet.
  • Offers design versatility – can be used as walls, floors and roofs. Easily forms unique shapes, such as the curved, vaulted roof on this project.
  • 4-hour fire rating (meaning the material can withstand fire for 4 hours while maintaining structural integrity).
  • High thermal insulation.
  • High acoustical insulation.
  • Resists high winds and hurricanes.
  • Termite and insect resistant.
Let us know if you have any questions about either of these resilient, green building materials!