Owner/
Builder

 

WORKSHOPS & EVENTS
listed chronologically

Strawbale Workshop
June 27 - July 3
Gardner, Colorado

Build, from start to finish (foundation to roof), a mostly load-bearing strawbale greenhouse/shed to house our solar panels, batteries, tools, and a greenhouse. Part of the structure will utilize a timber frame -- learn that as well. Open to 15 people. The workshops are free, though we ask people to make a deposit to hold their place and we have a suggested donation ($105) for the week's worth of catered meals. Camping, hot solar showers, outdoor bathrooms, hiking at nearby Sand Dunes. Please call or email with any questions. Mark Schneider 719-695-4114 joinourcommunityAThotmail.com

Cob in the Village
June 29 - July 4, 2009
O.U.R. Ecovilla
ge, Shawnigan Lake, BC, Canada

Cob building is learned quite easily by people from all walks of life. We work together, learn from each other and discover our connections through activity and reflection. This is an introductory level cob workshop. All it takes is your curiosity and excitement and you can be part of the team. Technical learning includes materials, recipes, building instruction, attaching doors/ windows, building arches.  We start on foot and may introduce some mechanization along the way.

See  ourecovillage.org for more information.

Natural Building School
practical and hands-on training

June 29 - August 14
Kimberley Campus of the College of the Rockies, BC, Canada

This program has expanded to 7 weeks of practical and hands-on training. We will work on several great projects while enjoying the beautiful surroundings. Learn how to create buildings and living spaces that are beautiful, natural and sustainable. Workshops include: -Basic Construction Fundamentals -Post and Beam/ Timber Framing -Natural Building Design -Straw Bale -Adobe /Cob -Cordwood -Green Roof and Living Walls -Natural Plasters -Renewable Energy Also free guest speakers once a week presenting on Building Codes, Yurts, Permaculture, and more.
See www.cotr.bc.ca for more information

Earthbag Domes and Arches
July 9 - 12
Lake Hancza , Poland

Hands on and theory. The site is located on a beautiful hilly meadow, with forests and lakes, existing structures include an unfinished post and beam load-bearing straw bale house, a small earthbag dome and straw bale bus shelter. A camping field with very basic facilities is on site and accommodation is available 1km away.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Beyond Stone Masonry: Art of Stone
July 5 - 10, 2009
Warren , VT

This five-day course will teach the art of building with natural stone, the intelligence and logic behind it, and even take you beyond basic stone masonry and into the realm of stonework as an art form. The goal is to build an enclosed garden with an arched entryway for a local client.

Instructor: Thea Alvin; Tuition: $750

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

StrawBaleWorkshops.com
7 Day Intensive Straw Bale Construction Workshop (LOAD BEARING)

July 6 - 12 , 2009
Florence, Oregon

If you want to learn the techniques of straw bale construction you have come to the right place. My name is Andrew Morrison and I have been a professional straw bale builder for over 12 years and am a co-founder of Straw Bale Innovations, LLC (www.StrawBale.com ). I have built many straw bale homes in my career and love to teach people the skills I have perfected over my years in construction.

In just seven days, I will teach you the tips and techniques I have developed over my years building custom straw bale homes.  We will cover everything from the basics of purchasing bales to the techniques of applying plaster.  The hands on activities, constant reflection and "on the fly" discussions, will allow you to leave the workshop fully equipped and confident with the construction of your own straw bale building. In addition to the work, friendships with like minded folks help enhance the overall experience.  Participants are encouraged to bring musical instruments and those perfect jokes for long lasting evening fun.

For more information see www.strawbaleworkshops.com

Sustainable Building Seminar
July 6th - 20th 2009
Westfield  Vermont, 05784

Come and join us as we explore the amazing potential of building natural, sustaining structures from local material using traditional framing techniques and natural enclosure methods that have been practiced for thousands of years.

TIMBER FRAMING July 6th- 17th.  We will be constructing a 30' by 30' Timber Frame octagon using a combination of square dimensional timber and naturally curved round timber which has been gathered within a half mile of the workshop site using horses.  We will cover design and hand layout methods for both round and square timber to produce perfect joinery and instill a sense of craftsmanship in all our students.   We will also go through the steps for laying out and executing compound roof framing using natural joinery. See alternativelysustainingcreation.com for more information.

Invisible Structures:
Strategies for Sustainability Beyond Building Green

July 10 - 12, 2009
Warren , VT

This course examines what economic, legal, contractual, cultural, marketing and communications strategies -- so-called "invisible structures" -- can be combined with sustainable building practices to initiate long term sustainable communities. Students will develop a long term sustainability strategy for a real development to be built and are encouraged to bring their own projects for discussion.

Instructor: Christopher Sweetnam-Holmes; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Natural Building Workshop
Loveland, CO
July 10-13

Come learn to build your own truly natural, sustainable, affordable, beautiful home at this 4-day workshop. Acclaimed Thai organic farmer/earthen builder Jon Jandai and Coloradoan Peggy Reents will teach various natural building techniques using local, readily available materials. They have been leaders in the natural building movement in Thailand for years and are now starting a sustainable living learning center and home in Jefferson, Colorado.

Learn through building yourself from basic sustainable design principles, selecting clay, making adobe bricks, building walls from various earthen techniques, earthen plasters for earthen and strawbale walls, to natural homemade paints and finishes. Come stay on their pristine land at over 9,000 ft elevation in the Rockies and learn building along with introduction to Thai massage, Thai cooking, and organic seed saving. The workshop will include:

• Introduction to our "compound", our vision and tour of the other strawbale house on site as well as our present project, an earthship under construction
• Basic design principles for environmental citing, climatic considerations, and aesthetics
• Adobe brick making
• Adobe wall construction
• Intros and smaller projects using other earthen building techniques including wattle-and-daub, cob, and earth bag
• Earthen plasters for earthen walls and strawbale walls
• Natural clay/starch paints, linseed oil, beeswax and other options for finishing sealants, etc

Contact Peggy Reents at pareentsATyahoo.com  See www.punpunthailand.org for more information.

Residential Renewable Energy
July 11 - 12
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Intro to Wind
July 13
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Cob as Cobbers Can
July 13 - 18, 2009
O.U.R. Ecovilla
ge, Shawnigan Lake, BC, Canada

O.U.R.Ecovillage is a great place to learn. You can see finished examples of past seasons' work and be inspired by communal life. This workshop is for those with some background in building, serious intention for building or builders of another trade. Build efficiency, good detail, connections with other building elements. Understand materials and evaluate choices. This workshop also includes next steps towards finishing: try some earthen plaster!

See  ourecovillage.org for more information.

Intermediate Wind
July 14 - 15
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Clay Plastering, Ect.
July 9 - 12
Lake Hancza , Poland

Sculpting, clay paints, straw/clay as insulation, making 1cm thin partition walls. The site is located on a beautiful hilly meadow, with forests and lakes, existing structures include an unfinished post and beam load-bearing straw bale house, a small earthbag dome and straw bale bus shelter. A camping field with very basic facilities is on site and accommodation is available 1km away.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Wind Site Assessment
July 16 - 17
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

2nd Annual Boulder County Green Building Conference
July 17 - 18
Boulder, CO

See www.greenbuildingconference.org   for more information

Learn to Build your Own Cob and Earthbag House
July 18-19
Newberry Cohousing, Portland, Oregon

Topics include: Earthbag and Gravel Foundations, Earthbag and Cob Wall systems, Passive Solar, Window placement, Roof design, Earthen floors, Earthen plasters and paints, Earthen fireplaces. Four weekends of workshops that cover the skills you need to build an earthen cottage in the NW start to finish. Come to all or some. Workshops are from 9am-5pm, Lunch provided.
Taught by: Scott Howard and co.
Tuition for all four weekends = $650
Tuition for one weekend = $175
Discounts if you sign up before April 15th!
Space is limited.
See www.earthenhand.com for more information

Insulated Rammed Earth Course
July 18 & 19
Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada


More than ever before, it is imperative to transform the built environment. Green building’s time is now and constructing a new economy requires a different approach to building. Join us and get inspired to transform the built environment. Held over two days on beautiful Salt Spring Island, BC, participants in SIREWALL’s hands-on Introduction to Insulated Rammed Earth Course will get introduced to SIREWALL including:
• Touring multiple SIREWALL homes – being inside is so different than looking at pictures
• Exploring aspects of design and engineering for the best use this new material
• Making rammed earth samples to take home – a hands-on experience that includes choosing the soil at the pit and analyzing soil blends
• Engaging in ‘deep green’ conversations; a contextual construct to assess green alternatives
• Comparing applications around the rammed earth world, what works and what does not work
• Learning how to participate in moving this technology forward and how can you make a difference

Register Today: officeATsirewall.com T: 1.250.537.9355   www.sirewall.com

Fine Plaster Workshop
July 18 - 24
Gardner, Colorado

Put final clay alise coat on interior walls, seal and render floor, and plaster exterior walls on our 1350 sq ft strawbale and timber frame community home. Time permitting, we'll also build an accessible footbridge across the river! Open to 15 people. The workshops are free, though we ask people to make a deposit to hold their place and we have a suggested donation ($105) for the week's worth of catered meals. Camping, hot solar showers, outdoor bathrooms, hiking at nearby Sand Dunes. I can give more details if necessary. Please call or email with any questions. Mark Schneider 719-695-4114 joinourcommunityAThotmail.com

Introduction to cordwood and wattle and daub
July 19 - 20
Lake Hancza , Poland

The site is located on a beautiful hilly meadow, with forests and lakes, existing structures include an unfinished post and beam load-bearing straw bale house, a small earthbag dome and straw bale bus shelter. A camping field with very basic facilities is on site and accommodation is available 1km away.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Permaculture Design Certification Course
Mariposa ecoVillage, Amarillo, Texas
Hosted by The High Plains Institute for Applied Ecology
July 19-30

taught by Joel Glanzberg

This 72-hour course will provide graduates with a Permaculture Design Course certificate. They will be certified as Permaculture Design Trainees. This allows students to practice as Permaculture Designers and to develop a body of work in order to be fully certified after two years of work in the field demonstrating proficiency and practice.

See www.hpiappliedecology.org for more information

Solar Heating and Natural Building Design - 4 day Workshop

Crestone Solar School
Crestone, Colorado

July 23 - 26

Learn innovative 21st century Solar and Natural Building technologies. Fee includes workshop materials, all meals, and outdoor camping at the Crestone Solar School home site.

Taught by Paul Shippee. seet www.crestonesolarschool.com   for details.

Building as if People Mattered Conference
July 23 - 26
O.U.R.Ecovillag
e, Vancouver Island, Canada

O.U.R. Ecovillage is a high profile demonstration site for sustainable development with ground breaking zoning, permitted natural buildings and learning community in action on beautiful Vancouver Island, British Columbia. In cooperation with the Natural Building Network we are pleased to host this event on our land in Shawnigan Lake. Consider it a small retreat in the middle of a busy summer: spend time in nature, camp out, meet like-minded people, and enjoy inspired conversations.

Our keynote presenters bring different perspectives to the table:
Mark Lakeman, Communitecture in Portland
Meror Krayenhoff, SIRE Wall , on Salt Spring Island
Elke Cole, Houses that love you back , O.U.R. Ecovillage

Other facilitators offer expertise and will lead various topics including:

Forms of community: from COOPs to Ecovillages Natural Building meets Green Building Working with Owner Builders Legal Challenges in Natural Building
Supporting a New Generation of Builders
Health and Beauty in Building
Yoga on the job? Healthy practices for hard work Hands in the earth: Cob building Building with Bales The Living Building Challenge

Please visit http://nbnetwork.org/events/baipm for more information and registration

Rammed Earth Building Workshop
July 24 - 26
Victoria, BC, Canada

This is a 2-3 day hands on course that teaches the basics of rammed earth construction for landscaping or non-insulated walls. Learn how to form and ram a wall from professionals. Learn about proper mixing etc. with lots of time for  Q & A about building rammed earth walls. More info at www.rammedearth.info

Small Building , Naturally
4 part hands-on weekend workshop series in Strawbale and Timberframe construction
Workshop #1: Design and Planning, July 24, 25, 26, 2009
South Shore of Nova Scotia

Over four weekends workshop participants will construct a small, sustainable residence together with our experienced facilitators. Workshops combine hands-on opportunities with presentations, slides and discussions to answer questions about: sustainable design, natural materials and methods, appropriate technology,. Learn how to build your own dream home or simple cabin.  Enroll in all (for discount) or pick and choose.

Workshop #2: Structure: Timber Frame, August 14, 15, 16, 2009

Workshop #3: Enclosure: Straw Bale Infill Walls, August 28, 29, 30, 2009

Workshop #4: Finishing: Earth Plasters, October 9, 10, 11, 2009

The workshops take place at Pollination Project, an education and development centre situated on a stunning 250 acre site of woods, lakes, rivers and organic gardens on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where we welcome groups and individuals through workshops, seminars and residential fellowships, to explore the inherent connections between healthy food, artistic expression, mindful practices and just society. There are two strawbale homes on the property for accommodation, a dorm and camping sites. Instructors: Kim Thompson and John Pece. For more information:

www.pollinationproject.org or call Camelia Frieberg at 902)624-1979

Solar Design Weekend Workshop
July 25 - 26, 2009
Warren , VT

This workshop will present the basic design, theory and methods required to maximize the solar potential of your present or future home. The course will expand your understanding of how to use the sun's energy to brighten your life, heat your living spaces and water, and recharge your batteries for a more natural, comfortable and economical home.

Instructors: Hilton Dier III, John Ringel ; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Homebrew Wind Turbine Design and Construction
(six days) July 25 - 30
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Natural Building Intensive
July 26- August 2
Emerald Earth Sanctuary, Boonville, California

This comprehensive workshop will give you hands-on experience in up to 10 different natural building techniques including cob, straw bale, slipstraw or light straw-clay, slip-and-chip, clay wattle, earthen plasters, hand-made paints, and more. The workshop aims to familiarize students with the basic family of natural building materials: clay or earth, straw, wood, and stone, and what can be accomplished with each alone and in combination with the others. At least half of each day is spent in hands-on building with a high ratio of experienced instructors. Lectures and discussions cover passive solar and other design principles for energy-efficient, compact natural homes. There will also be an extensive tour of the most complete natural building demonstration site on the West Coast, with an emphasis on ecological materials harvesting, off-grid electrical generation, greywater reclamation, composting toilets, and more. Evening slide presentations and videos, a sauna and a dip in our pond, and wood-fired pizza from our earthen oven round out this 8-day intensive experience.

Instructors: Michael G. Smith, Darryl Berlin, and friends; Cost: $760 includes camping and 3 delicious organic meals per day. 10% discount for full payment by June 29 and for Mendocino County residents. For more information see www.emeraldearth.org   or email workshopsATemeraldearth.org

COB VEGETABLE STAND
Complete Shelter Workshop

July 31-August 7
Whidbey Island, WA

Spend 7 days in a beautiful location learning one of the simplest building methods on the planet.  In this workshop, participants will learn the art of building with the earth and will leave with the confidence to build their own natural home or shelter.  Mornings will be packed with hands on building, and afternoons will be a mix of more building, tours and relaxing.  In the evenings there will be presentations and time to enjoy good food, music and the exploration of ideas with new friends.  We will be building an 80-100 square foot cob vegetable stand from the ground up using a variety of techniques from foundation to roof.  In this way, everyone will gain a sense of integrating the materials of sand, clay, soil and straw into the whole building process.  We will be using local, abundant materials and discussing how to find these materials in most any location.  We will also emphasize using human powered building techniques so participants will know what to do when oil and gas are scarce.  We will work as a community team, taking care of our bodies and having fun.  This workshop will be a key component in a world with fewer fossil fuels.  Through this experience, participants will walk away with a sense of empowerment to build in a natural way.  See www.naturalbuildingschool.org for more information.

Green Remodeling Weekend Workshop
August 1 - 2, 2009
Warren, VT

Explore the global environmental context for green building, and receive a step-by-step primer in building science – including site, envelope, thermal and moisture protection, mechanicals, lighting, renewables, and air quality – and the challenges and opportunities these present in the context of remodeling. Students will gain an understanding of the materials and procedures for maximizing energy efficiency and re-creating spaces that are healthy and comfortable, and how professionals can sell those services to clients.

Instructor: Andrew Faust; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Microhydro: Home-Scale Water Power Systems
August 2 - 7, 2009
Warren, VT

This microhydro course will deal with all aspects of assessing, designing and implementing battery-based water powered systems. Students will work with the actual equipment and learn to install a fully functional microhydro system.

Instructor: Paul Cunningham; Tuition: $750

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

August 3rd to August 7th, 2009

Laminated Ferrocement Class

Montrose, Colorado

In laminated ferrocement [LFC] a thin layer of mortar is applied to a flat surface or to the inside of a mold and wire mesh [in this case expanded metal mesh is primarily used] is pressed into the mortar. The process is repeated with more layers of mortar and more wire mesh until the desired number of layers of reinforcement is achieved. This method leads to virtually complete encapsulation of the mesh, eliminates almost all hand tying of mesh layers and yields a thinner, stronger and more reliable FC structure. The LFC method is very suited to accurate reproduction of mutiple units from a mold.

See ferrocement.net for more information.

Building with Strawbales
August 7 - 9
near Warsaw Poland

Hands on. Located in a forest with existing structures that include a small load bearing straw bale house and an earthbag dome covered in slats. The site also has a camping field.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Hands-on Permaculture Design and Implementation
Coquille, OR
August 8-23, 2009

D uring this 15 day course, we will transform inhabited wild landscape into an anthropocentric ecology in the midst of conserved Oregon Coastal Rainforest. In the process we will learn about water supply and storage, drainage, access, food forest design, siting, soil building, tool use, and perennial multi-story horticulture. You will also experience and learn about solar and hydro power, natural building, forest complexity restoration, commercial ecoforestry and more! The 400 acre site is home to both Mountain Homestead Intentional Community and Cob Cottage Co., who began their Natural Building School here in 2001. Meals and camping provided. $500-800 sliding scale. Contact: Ish Shalom, (541)396-4764, ish.shalomATgmail.com

Comprehensive Cottage Construction
August 8-15
White Oak Farm & Education Center Williams, Oregon USA

Join us this Summer as we build a small cottage in the woods designed to demonstrate a wide range of natural building techniques. Over eight days you will learn how to build with c ob, straw bales, lights-straw-clay, adobe , and poles . You will also have the opportunity to use earthen plasters . Lectures, discussions and demonstrations will focus on passive solar design, alternative energy, foundations, living roofs, load-bearing and non-load-bearing construction, cob ovens, and much more. We will also tour several finished natural homes. Contact: infoATwhiteoakfarmcsa.org                   www.whiteoakfarmcsa.org

Green Roof Design & Installation Course
August 9 - 14, 2009
Warren, VT

This course will cover the theoretical and technical considerations - native habitat preservation and insulation, filtration and water retention capacity - of green roofs and examine layer buildup, drainage solutions, characteristics of growing medium, and plant palette selection. Students will gain hands-on experience performing installations and building a green roof.

Instructors: Meghan Pierce-Delaney, Thandi Rosenbaum; Tuition: $750

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

StrawBaleWorkshops.com
7 Day Intensive Straw Bale Construction Workshop

August 10 - 16 , 2009
Scipio Center, New York

If you want to learn the techniques of straw bale construction you have come to the right place. My name is Andrew Morrison and I have been a professional straw bale builder for over 12 years and am a co-founder of Straw Bale Innovations, LLC (www.StrawBale.com ). I have built many straw bale homes in my career and love to teach people the skills I have perfected over my years in construction.

In just seven days, I will teach you the tips and techniques I have developed over my years building custom straw bale homes.  We will cover everything from the basics of purchasing bales to the techniques of applying plaster.  The hands on activities, constant reflection and "on the fly" discussions, will allow you to leave the workshop fully equipped and confident with the construction of your own straw bale building. In addition to the work, friendships with like minded folks help enhance the overall experience.  Participants are encouraged to bring musical instruments and those perfect jokes for long lasting evening fun.

For more information see www.strawbaleworkshops.com

Clay Plastering, etc.
August 11 - 13
near Warsaw Poland

sculpting, clay paints, straw/clay as insulation, making 1cm thin partition walls. Located in a forest with existing structures that include a small load bearing straw bale house and an earthbag dome covered in slats. The site also has a camping field.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Rammed Earth Building Workshop
Aug 14 - 16
Salt Spring Island , BC, Canada

This is a 2-3 day hands on course that teaches the basics of rammed earth construction for landscaping or non-insulated walls. Learn how to form and ram a wall from professionals. Learn about proper mixing etc. with lots of time for  Q & A about building rammed earth walls. More info at www.rammedearth.info

Small Building , Naturally
4 part hands-on weekend workshop series in Strawbale and Timberframe construction
Workshop #2: Structure: Timber Frame, August 14, 15, 16, 2009
South Shore of Nova Scotia

Over four weekends workshop participants will construct a small, sustainable residence together with our experienced facilitators. Workshops combine hands-on opportunities with presentations, slides and discussions to answer questions about: sustainable design, natural materials and methods, appropriate technology,. Learn how to build your own dream home or simple cabin.  Enroll in all (for discount) or pick and choose.

Workshop #3: Enclosure: Straw Bale Infill Walls, August 28, 29, 30, 2009

Workshop #4: Finishing: Earth Plasters, October 9, 10, 11, 2009

The workshops take place at Pollination Project, an education and development centre situated on a stunning 250 acre site of woods, lakes, rivers and organic gardens on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where we welcome groups and individuals through workshops, seminars and residential fellowships, to explore the inherent connections between healthy food, artistic expression, mindful practices and just society. There are two strawbale homes on the property for accommodation, a dorm and camping sites. Instructors: Kim Thompson and John Pece. For more information:

www.pollinationproject.org or call Camelia Frieberg at 902)624-1979

 

Green Building Materials Weekend Workdhop
August 15 - 16, 2009
Warren, VT

Learn about environmental impact, life cycle assessment, and indoor air quality ramifications for materials used in nearly all aspects of the home including: roofing, cabinets and flooring, siding, wall coverings, wall systems, framing, plumbing and more. This course is open to all, and will help both amateurs and professionals to make best-possible environmental choices when designing and building a home.

Instructor: Rodney Wilts ; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Stone Masonry with Bill Childs
August 15 - 16 , 2009
O.U.R. Ecovilla
ge, Shawnigan Lake, BC, Canada

Dry Stacked Walls

See  ourecovillage.org for more information.

August 17th to August 21st, 2009

Ferrocement Faux Bois

Montrose, Colorado

“Faux Bois” (French for “False Wood”) Also known by the Spanish term, “El Trabajo Rustico” or “The Rustic Work”.

Ferrocement Faux Bois is the very nearly lost art form that employs steel and cement-based media to sculpt three dimensional representations of wood and wooden objects. The purpose of this five day course is to provide the basic skills, techniques and information necessary for a craftsperson to create works that are both decorative and functional.

See ferrocement.net for more information.

Solar Heating and Natural Building Design - 4 day Workshop

Crestone Solar School
Crestone, Colorado

August 20 - 23

Learn innovative 21st century Solar and Natural Building technologies. Fee includes workshop materials, all meals, and outdoor camping at the Crestone Solar School home site.

Taught by Paul Shippee. See www.crestonesolarschool.com   for details.

Timber Framing Workshop
August 21-23, 2009
The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina


Instructors : Steveo Brodmerkel & Ira Friedrichs
Fee : $300 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820

Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

Diseño e instalación de sistemas fotovoltaicos
21 a 24 de agosto
San Juan, Puerto Rico

See www.solarenergy.org

Permaculture Practicum
August 23 - 28, 2009
Warren, VT

The Permaculture Design Practicum is open only to students enrolled in Yestermorrow's Certificate in Sustainable Building & Design program, who have completed the Core Curriculum and want to dig more deeply into permaculture practices. Students will investigate applications of permaculture precepts, develop site analysis skills through visits to local farms and homesteads, and further their proficiency in design through work on an individual or group design project .

Instructors: Andrew Faust, Keith Morris ; Tuition: $750

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Introduction to Natural Building
August 28 - 30
Sedalia, CO

Gain a basic understanding of the principles, methodologies, and materials used in natural building. In this hands-on workshop, you'll help create needed structures at Woodbine Ecology Center and also learn how to: assess and find local materials and resources; utilize natural building to reduce your carbon footprint; find meaningful connections with your natural environment; and create beautiful, healthy, and efficient structures. The workshop starts Friday night with an opening ceremony, meet-and-greet, and evening presentation.

Topics to be covered include:

  • Straw Bale Construction
  • Natural Foundations
  • Cob and Adobe
  • Waddle and Daub
  • Timber Frames
  • Natural Paints and Plasters
  • Passive Solar Design
  • Indigenous Building Design
  • Reclaimed Materials
  • Cold Frame and Greenhouse Design
  • Local building regulations
See www.woodbinecenter.org for more information

Small Building , Naturally
4 part hands-on weekend workshop series in Strawbale and Timberframe construction
Workshop #3: Enclosure: Straw Bale Infill Walls, August 28, 29, 30, 2009
South Shore of Nova Scotia

Over four weekends workshop participants will construct a small, sustainable residence together with our experienced facilitators. Workshops combine hands-on opportunities with presentations, slides and discussions to answer questions about: sustainable design, natural materials and methods, appropriate technology,. Learn how to build your own dream home or simple cabin.  Enroll in all (for discount) or pick and choose.

Workshop #4: Finishing: Earth Plasters, October 9, 10, 11, 2009

The workshops take place at Pollination Project, an education and development centre situated on a stunning 250 acre site of woods, lakes, rivers and organic gardens on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where we welcome groups and individuals through workshops, seminars and residential fellowships, to explore the inherent connections between healthy food, artistic expression, mindful practices and just society. There are two strawbale homes on the property for accommodation, a dorm and camping sites. Instructors: Kim Thompson and John Pece. For more information:

www.pollinationproject.org or call Camelia Frieberg at 902)624-1979

 

Permaculture for Home & Garden Weekend Workshop
August 29 - 30, 2009
Warren, VT

In this workshop, students will learn Permaculture principles as applied in temperate homes and gardens. Discussion will focus on organic gardening, building with local natural materials, ecological lawn, meadow, stream and wetland care, orchards, composting, off-the-grid water systems, and domestic and wild animal management. Students are encouraged to bring questions about their own gardens and homes.

Instructor: Andrew Faust; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Rammed Earth Building Workshop
September 5 - 6
Sunshine Coast, BC, Canada

This is a 2-3 day hands on course that teaches the basics of rammed earth construction for landscaping or non-insulated walls. Learn how to form and ram a wall from professionals. Learn about proper mixing etc. with lots of time for  Q & A about building rammed earth walls. More info at www.rammedearth.info

Stone Masonry with Bill Childs
September 5 - 6, 2009
O.U.R. Ecovilla
ge, Shawnigan Lake, BC, Canada

Stone Steps

See  ourecovillage.org for more information.

An Introduction to Natural Building
September 5 - 7
near Warsaw Poland

An overview of building technologies such as earthbags, cordwood, cob, wattle & daub. Located in a forest with existing structures that include a small load bearing straw bale house and an earthbag dome covered in slats. The site also has a camping field.
See www.earthhandsandhouses.org for more information.

Convert Your Car to Electricity
(six days) Sept. 5 - 10
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Finish the House! Workshop
September 5-11
Gardner, Colorado

Finish the house! Final electrical, plumbing, cabinetry, & tile work in our 1350 sq ft strawbale community home. Lots of details & creativity! Learn how we wired and plumbed a strawbale home in a county with pretty strict codes. Open to 15 people. Please call or email with any questions. The workshops are free, though we ask people to make a deposit to hold their place and we have a suggested donation ($105) for the week's worth of catered meals. Camping, hot solar showers, outdoor bathrooms, hiking at nearby Sand Dunes. I can give more details if necessary. Mark Schneider 719-695-4114 joinourcommunityAThotmail.com

Intro to Cob Building
Sept. 6 - 12 , 2009
Warren , VT

During this one week course you will learn how to begin building your own cob home out of clay, sand, and straw. Learn to prospect and test for appropriate building sediment, how to mix cob, various wall building techniques, the installation of windows into cob walls, methods of attachment for wood (e.g. doors, roofs), how to sculpt niches, shelves, and furniture, how to build earthen floors, and how to set up electric and plumbing for cob buildings.

Instructor: Tim Rieth and guests; Tuition: $900

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

StrawBaleWorkshops.com
7 Day Intensive Straw Bale Construction Workshop

Sept. 7 - 13 , 2009
Grants, New Mexico

If you want to learn the techniques of straw bale construction you have come to the right place. My name is Andrew Morrison and I have been a professional straw bale builder for over 12 years and am a co-founder of Straw Bale Innovations, LLC (www.StrawBale.com ). I have built many straw bale homes in my career and love to teach people the skills I have perfected over my years in construction.

In just seven days, I will teach you the tips and techniques I have developed over my years building custom straw bale homes.  We will cover everything from the basics of purchasing bales to the techniques of applying plaster.  The hands on activities, constant reflection and "on the fly" discussions, will allow you to leave the workshop fully equipped and confident with the construction of your own straw bale building. In addition to the work, friendships with like minded folks help enhance the overall experience.  Participants are encouraged to bring musical instruments and those perfect jokes for long lasting evening fun.

For more information see www.strawbaleworkshops.com

Natural Building Workshop
September 9-13, 2009
The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina

Instructors : Steveo Brodmerkel & Janell Kapoor (Kleiwerks), Mollie Curry & Steve Kemble (MudStrawLove)

Gain practical natural building skills in adobe, cob, wattle & daub, earthen wall finishes, passive solar design and more.  You will be guided by some of the country's leading instructors, who together have an accumulation of over 45 years experience.  Demonstrations, lectures, slideshows, a field trip and plenty of hands-on building will be part of your learning experience.  

Fee : $500 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820
Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

Insulated Rammed Earth Course
Sept 12 & 13
Salt Spring Island, BC, Canada


More than ever before, it is imperative to transform the built environment. Green building’s time is now and constructing a new economy requires a different approach to building. Join us and get inspired to transform the built environment. Held over two days on beautiful Salt Spring Island, BC, participants in SIREWALL’s hands-on Introduction to Insulated Rammed Earth Course will get introduced to SIREWALL including:
• Touring multiple SIREWALL homes – being inside is so different than looking at pictures
• Exploring aspects of design and engineering for the best use this new material
• Making rammed earth samples to take home – a hands-on experience that includes choosing the soil at the pit and analyzing soil blends
• Engaging in ‘deep green’ conversations; a contextual construct to assess green alternatives
• Comparing applications around the rammed earth world, what works and what does not work
• Learning how to participate in moving this technology forward and how can you make a difference

Register Today: officeATsirewall.com T: 1.250.537.9355   www.sirewall.com

Ecology, Permaculture & Renewable Energy
September 12 - 20
Ecuador

See www.solarenergy.org for more information

Healthy Buildings 2009 Conference
Syracuse, NY
September 13 to 17, 2009

This international meeting, hosted by the Syracuse Center of Excellence in Environmental and Energy Systems , will provide a forum for exchange of leading research and technology developments, a unique opportunity to share information and an extraordinary venue to network with national and global leaders and professionals in the fields of indoor air quality and healthy built environments. We hope you will enjoy ISIAQ's signature conference, bringing together 1,000 to 1,500 professionals from around the world to discuss built environments and how to make them healthier, more productive, and more sustainable places to live, work, and learn.

See www.hb2009.org home for more information.

Natural Building Intensive
September 13 - 20
Emerald Earth Sanctuary, Boonville, California

This comprehensive workshop will give you hands-on experience in up to 10 different natural building techniques including cob, straw bale, slipstraw or light straw-clay, slip-and-chip, clay wattle, earthen plasters, hand-made paints, and more. The workshop aims to familiarize students with the basic family of natural building materials: clay or earth, straw, wood, and stone, and what can be accomplished with each alone and in combination with the others. At least half of each day is spent in hands-on building with a high ratio of experienced instructors. Lectures and discussions cover passive solar and other design principles for energy-efficient, compact natural homes. There will also be an extensive tour of the most complete natural building demonstration site on the West Coast, with an emphasis on ecological materials harvesting, off-grid electrical generation, greywater reclamation, composting toilets, and more. Evening slide presentations and videos, a sauna and a dip in our pond, and wood-fired pizza from our earthen oven round out this 8-day intensive experience.

Instructors: Michael G. Smith, Darryl Berlin, and friends; Cost: $760 includes camping and 3 delicious organic meals per day. 10% discount for full payment by June 29 and for Mendocino County residents. For more information see www.emeraldearth.org   or email workshopsATemeraldearth.org

First International Hemp Building Symposium
16th - 18th September, 2009
Kenmare, CoKerry, Ireland

contact symposiumAThempbuilding.com for more information or see www.irelandgreenbuilding.com

Permaculture Design Certification Class
Sept. 20 - Oct. 2, 2009
Warren, VT

This course covers the core Permaculture Design curriculum including applications of Permaculture in diverse settings, and techniques for meeting human needs that harmonize with ecological patterns. Lectures and hands-on work will also explore: bioregional designs, natural history of Eastern woodlands and designs that cooperate with their regeneration, evolution of agriculture, energy and nutrient cycling, watershed health, gravity spring-fed water systems, tree paste for fruit trees, selective firewood and pole harvesting to encourage maples, apples, shitake and ginseng, and the integration of animals into cultivated ecosystems. Local experts on organic beekeeping and biodynamics will make guest appearances. The course will conclude with students doing their own Permaculture site design. Permaculture design benefits community leaders and professionals in the fields of architecture, planning, ecology and education.

Instructor: Andrew Faust; Tuition: $1410

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Comprehensive Timber Framing, Earth-sheltering
and Cordwood MasonryWorkshop

September 23-27, 2009
near Pagosa Springs, Colorado

A comprehensive 5-day workshop: timber framing for the rest of us, earth-sheltering and cordwood masonry, all in one. We will build a little guest-house. See www.cordwoodmasonry.com for more information.

Natural Building Workshop
September 24-26, 2009
The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina

Instructors : Steveo Brodmerkel & Janell Kapoor (Kleiwerks)

Gain practical natural building skills in adobe, cob, wattle & daub, earthen wall finishes, passive solar design and more.  You will be guided by some of the country's leading instructors through demonstrations, lectures, slideshows and plenty of hands-on experience while working on real projects.

Fee : $300 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820
Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

Timberframing
Sept. 27 - Oct. 3, 2009
Warren , VT

Students will learn the fundamentals of designing and constructing a timberframe structure using mortise and tenon joinery. Layout techniques, tool use and sharpening, and joinery cutting methods are taught as we work on – and raise! – a small timberframe project.

Instructors: Skip Dewhirst, Josh Jackson ; Tuition: $900

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Ecological Water Systems Weekend Workshop
Oct. 3 - 4, 2009
Warren, VT

This course will explore holistic, permaculture approaches and in-depth designs for increasing aquifer recharge and percolation to alleviate flooding, sediment and siltation problems in a range of applications and environments. Specific topics will include: sitting ponds, developing springs, gravity fed systems, solar pumps, cisterns, rainwater catchment, intentional wetland wastewater treatment, rain garden designs for biofiltration of runoff from parking lots and roadways, erosion control, stabilizing stream banks, and much more.

Instructors: Michael Blazewicz, Andrew Faust ; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Green Building - A Systems Approach
(5 days) Oct. 3 - 7
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Passive Solar Heating and Cooling
Oct. 8 - 9
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Small Building , Naturally
4 part hands-on weekend workshop series in Strawbale and Timberframe construction
Workshop #4: Finishing: Earth Plasters, October 9, 10, 11, 2009
South Shore of Nova Scotia

Over four weekends workshop participants will construct a small, sustainable residence together with our experienced facilitators. Workshops combine hands-on opportunities with presentations, slides and discussions to answer questions about: sustainable design, natural materials and methods, appropriate technology,. Learn how to build your own dream home or simple cabin.  Enroll in all (for discount) or pick and choose.

The workshops take place at Pollination Project, an education and development centre situated on a stunning 250 acre site of woods, lakes, rivers and organic gardens on the South Shore of Nova Scotia where we welcome groups and individuals through workshops, seminars and residential fellowships, to explore the inherent connections between healthy food, artistic expression, mindful practices and just society. There are two strawbale homes on the property for accommodation, a dorm and camping sites. Instructors: Kim Thompson and John Pece. For more information:

www.pollinationproject.org or call Camelia Frieberg at 902)624-1979

Home Energy Efficiency
Oct. 10
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Slipform Stone
Oct. 10 - 11, 2009
Warren , VT

Learn how to build a timeless, maintenance-free stone house for a very low cost, with your own hands. All aspects of a slipform stone exterior wall will be addressed, including foundations, door and window detailing and roof connection options and the workshop will include information on passive solar design and integrating the stone walls into your floor plans.

Instructor: Tim McCarthy; Tuition: $300

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Certificate in Sustainable Building & Design Core Curriculum:
Ecological Design in the Built Environment

Oct. 10 - 11, 2009
Warren , VT

This is Yestermorrow's core class in home-scale whole systems design, ecological planning, design and construction. Through lectures, seminars, field trips, and a design charrette, students will hear various perspectives – from designers, builders, owners, facility managers, developers, governmental and non-governmental organizations, and residents – on ecological design and construction. Study of siting, energy, materials, water, envelope and systems design will prepare students to create zero net-energy, healthy, comfortable living spaces that are integrated with the environment they depend upon. Students will learn basic drawing, drafting and modeling skills that may be employed in whole systems approaches to environmental design and construction of buildings and communities at any scale.

Various Instructors ; Tuition: $4200

Offered by: Yestermorrow Design/Build School
Address: 189 VT Rt 100 Warren, VT 05674
Phone: 888-496-5541 or 802-496-5545
Email: designbuild AT yestermorrow.org

See www.yestermorrow.org for more information

Basic Photovoltaics
Oct. 11
The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building

Gerald, Missouri

Workshops at The Center for Renewable Energy and Green Building are conducted by Daniel Chiras, Ph.D., author, lecturer and green building consultant. Dan has written over two dozen books on sustainability, residential green building, and residential renewable energy and has taught numerous classes and workshops. For more information see www.evergreeninstitute.org, call 303-883-8290, or email infoATevergreeninstitute.org.

Natural Building Workshop
October 14-15, 2009
The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina

Instructors : Steveo Brodmerkel & Janell Kapoor (Kleiwerks)

Gain practical natural building skills in adobe, cob, wattle & daub, earthen wall finishes, passive solar design and more.  You will be guided by some of the country's leading instructors through demonstrations, lectures, slideshows and plenty of hands-on experience while working on real projects.

Fee : $200 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820
Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

BUILDING A NUBIAN VAULTED ROOF
October 16 - November 1
Presidio, Texas

Against a back wall the height of an intended catenary vault, we will trace the parabola for the roof. Seated on scaffolding, we will build lovingly by hand, course by course, a soaring vaulted roof, with small adobe bricks measuring 10"x7"x1.5" Such woodless adobe roofs, revived from archaic engineering techniques, are the least expensive and healthiest form of protection from the elements. Labor intensive, they require only the earth beneath your feet, water and straw.

Workshops are limited to 16 participants. Hands-on teaching is offered in English and Spanish by alumnus Stevan de la Rosa of Baja California, and by Efren Rodriguez, maestro adobero from Ojinaga, Mexico. Simone Swan teaches theory, design, history and gladly discusses experiences in earth architecture based on her apprenticeship in Egypt with architect Hassan Fathy (1900-1989.) Alum Sandro Canovas, our project manager, is quick to answer myriad questions. We hope to hold a lime plaster demo with Ian Daitz.
Tuition: $300 for 3 days or long weekend. $400 a week. 50% discount for neighbors in Presidio and Brewster counties. $100 registration fee due immediately, payable to Adobe Alliance, Inc P.O.Box 1915, Presidio, Texas, 79845. Cell 832 277 4425
Information on lodging, meals and directions is posted on the website www.adobealliance.org

The 9th International Permaculture Design Course
Harare, Zimbabwe
18 to 29 October

See www.ipc9.org for more information.

Earth Shelter Workshop on Building with Straw Bales
October 23-25
Louisa, Virginia

Expert instructors Steve Kemble and Mollie Curry will present both hands-on experience of and classroom learning on straw bale construction and earthen plaster application. We'll also discuss the wider perspectives of natural building and green design. Come away with a solid introduction to the basics of straw bale building construction, earth plaster application ad passive solar design. The weekend also includes a round table discussion on natural building and communal living, and tours of the Acorn and Twin Oaks intentional communities. $325 ($295 before August 1st) registration includes sleeping accommodations and home-cooked meals. Space is limited. See website for details and registration: http://thefec.org/workshop

The 9th International Permaculture Convergence
Lilongwe, Malawi
2 to 5 November

See www.ipc9.org for more information.

The 9th International Permaculture Conference
Lilongwe, Malawi
6 November

See www.ipc9.org for more information.

The 9th International Permaculture Site Tour
Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa
7 to 30 November

See www.ipc9.org for more information.

Rainwater & Greywater Catchment Workshop
November 6 & 7, 2009
The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina


Instructors :  Shawn Jadrnicek & Steveo Brodmerkel

Learn the art of catching, storing and using rainwater, greywater and stormwater resources.  From passive rain gardens to tanks, ponds, canals and tubs, this workshop will teach you how to maximize rainwater use in your landscape, food production and household systems.  Greywater will also be explored with a look at the current legal status and branched drain systems used in other states.  We will explore AVI's newly set-up systems, do a hands-on project and learn from lectures and slidshows.  You will leave the workshop with enough knowledge to be able to set up your own system.  

Fee : $200 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820

Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

Sustainable Community Development: Renewable Energy for Rural Villages
November 7 - 14
Nicaragua

See www.solarenergy.org for more information

Natural Finishes, Earthen Plasters & Clay Paints
November 13 & 14, 2009
Location : The Ashevillage Institute (AVI) , Asheville, North Carolina

Instructors : Mollie Curry & Steve Kemble of MudStrawLove

Greener than green...Learn how to make and apply your own beautiful, customized, totally eco-friendly plasters and paints with clay, sand and other organic materials. Create textured finishes; trouble shoot for various surfaces; play with color options -- while actually practicing on real walls. By the end of the workshop, you will have enough information and techniques to make your own clay-based plasters and paints and you will leave with your own sample board.

Fee : $200 includes tuition & materials
Contact & Registration :  infoATashevillage.org , 828.225.8820

Click here for complete registration information and workshop specifics.

A Cross-Cultural Earthen Building Workshop

January 9th - 25th, 2010
Dogon Country, Mali

Let's build a schoolroom with the Dogon people of Terelli, Mali. The Dogon will share with us their languages, music, cuisine, farming, and building techniques. We will build alongside the Dogon villagers to complete a one-room schoolhouse. A 5 x 5 meter earthen dome, its construction will be our main activity. Students will learn dome design methods while gaining skills in stone, rammed earth bags, and cob. We will also learn about traditional Dogon building techniques by assisting several local builders with their work. Tour the country by foot and bus to see Dogon Permaculture in action. Visit spectacular ruins of old Dogon towns comparable to Mesa Verde and Chaco Canyon. Experience the daily life of the people of Terelli, an off-grid traditional village. Each day will be packed with learning, work, wholesome food, fantastic scenery, and great company. We will be surrounded by learning opportunities throughout our stay. The workshop will be a muti-lingual event with translation between French, English, and Dogon.

See www.earthenhand.com for more information

Classes and Workshops offered by Eco Versity
The EcoVersity was founded in 1999 by a launch team of educators, ecologists, anthropologists, and activists who gathered to design a school for students seeking innovative and practical approaches to learning from the land. In 2001 the school acquired 13 acres for a campus, centrally located in Santa Fe, New Mexico, and began offering Spring, Summer and Fall continuing education programs. Check www.ecoversity.org for more information.

bluerockstation.com of Ohio sponsors many wonderful workshops related to skills for building earthships.
cobworkshops.org lists many workshops featuring cob in North America.
EcoDwelling: A New College of California - North Bay
BA and MA Program Concentration

EcoDwelling is a 3-semester Concentration offered through New College of California North Bay Campus’s (Santa Rosa) Culture, Ecology and Sustainable Community program. New College offers accredited BA completion and MA degrees, with additional concentrations in Ecological Agriculture, Painting in the Landscape, and Consciousness, Healing, and Ecology.

The EcoDwelling Concentration is a holistic approach to dwelling in the broadest sense – encompassing the very nature of existence and being – and the entire process by which we inhabit our ecosystems and the planet. It is concerned with the causes of our current dwelling process failure, the principles of success, and the application of principles in the design of equitable, sustainable, universally affordable alternatives. The Concentration provides students with an opportunity to implement vision, theory and design for radically affordable, sustainable means of dwelling, through lecture, discussion, design projects, and hands-on building with cob, strawbales, and other natural materials.

The EcoDwelling Concentration is intended for anyone with an interest in any aspect of the dwelling process and its relationship to the whole. It is intended for anyone interested in discovering how to make their own way and means of dwelling more affordable, sustainable and liberating – thereby being able to help others do the same. As awareness of our collective crisis increases, the need for those who can recognize, understand, and implement sustainable alternatives will be substantial.

New College Northbay: www.newcollege.edu/northbay

lowimpact.org the Low-Impact Linging Initiative in England provides information and courses related to such topics as: eco-paints, lime, rammed earth building, strawbale building, solar electricity, solar hot water, wind generators, wood stoves, beekeeping, poultry, organic gardening, wild food, compost toilets, rain water harvesting, biodiesel, etc.

 

Disclaimer Of Liability And Warranty
I specifically disclaim any warranty, either expressed or implied, concerning the information on these pages. Neither I nor any of the advisor/consultants associated with this site will have liability for loss, damage, or injury, resulting from the use of any information found on this, or any other page at this site. Kelly Hart, Hartworks, Inc.

 

Home       Site Map        STORE

For Email contact go to About Us
Established in 2001, GreenHomeBuilding.com is primarily a labor of love. Kelly, and the GreenHomeBuilding team of experts, have answered thousands of questions for readers over the years, and we continue to publish up-to-date information about increasingly important sustainable architecture. If you feel moved to assist us in this work, your kind donation would be much appreciated; this can be easily done through our PayPal account:
Google
 
Web www.greenhomebuilding.com
VISIT OUR OTHER WEBSITES:

[Natural Building Bookstore]       [Earthbag Building]     [Dream Green Homes]     [Solar Car]