About “Ash” and “Lime”

Good ideas never go away, they just change over time — Roman concrete was one of these ideas. Modern concrete wears after only a few decades — and even sooner under harsh marine conditions — when a rusting reinforced steel skeleton starts causing cracks. Roman concrete uses the ingredients of volcanic ash and calcium oxide lime in its lost recipe, and when saltwater seeps into Roman concrete structures, it gets stronger over time. This combination results in a rare crystal called tobermorite, a durable material stronger than any of the separate parts. These resources, when combined with the local conditions, adapt over time and grow stronger. Some Roman concrete structures are still standing after thousands of years, and this kind of longevity is our philosophy.

Adaptive, Resourceful, Localized

Plans designed by ASH+LIME build off of communities resources, enhance the local conditions, and are made to grow stronger over time. Our approach of demonstrating success now, while building for the future — coupled with the foundations of placemaking that have withstood the test of time — brings long-term success to your community.