Surf Block Maui—an offshoot of Hawai‘i Off Grid Architecture, upcycles foam scraps from local surfboard shapers into insulated composite concrete form (ICCF) blocks. Made of about 85% recycled EPS foam bonded with cement, these modular blocks require one-third less concrete than traditional cinder blocks and offer double the insulation performance. They’re fire-resistant, termite-proof, mold-resistant, and four times stronger than wooden walls in hurricanes.
It was born amid Maui’s housing shortage and built-environment challenges, Surf Block Maui emerged after the 2023 Lahaina wildfires destroyed thousands of homes. Founder David Sellers discovered untapped potential when he observed dumpsters filled with polystyrene foam from surfboard manufacturers. His team secured a grant, developed pilot blocks, and is now constructing resilient, low-carbon homes—including one nearing completion in Olowalu. With local supply and low embodied carbon, Surf Blocks directly address both environmental waste and construction needs.
Image Credit: Surf Block Maui
