Nader Khalili

About the Author

Nader Khalili was a pioneering Iranian-American architect, author, and educator whose innovative work in sustainable building revolutionized the field of earth architecture. Born in Tehran in 1936, Khalili initially trained as an architect before traveling the world, where he developed a profound appreciation for natural materials and traditional construction methods. Frustrated by the environmental and social costs of modern building practices, he founded the Cal-Earth Institute in the California desert to promote eco-friendly housing solutions using earth, sand, and fire—materials abundant and accessible to all. His philosophy, encapsulated in the concept of 'superadobe,' combines ancient techniques like coiled pottery with modern engineering to create resilient, beautiful structures that withstand earthquakes and extreme climates. Through his writings and teachings, Khalili inspired a global movement toward affordable, sustainable shelter, emphasizing harmony between humanity and the planet. He passed away in 2008, leaving a legacy of hope for a more equitable built environment.