EARTH STRUCTURES
August 6-11, 2006

Instructors:

Lisa Williams

Fred Oesch

Description:

This course emphasizes the importance of creating a synergistic relationship between nature, environment, individual, and the building experience. Beginning with a broad overview of alternative, integrated, ecological building systems, students will focus primarily on the construction of an earth shelter, creating harmony between it and the site. Natural, renewable resources such as straw, wood, earth and clay will be discussed through slide lectures, discussions, tours, and plenty of hands-on experience.

Information and discussions on efficient-energy build concepts including solar, living-earth roofs, and organic environmental control systems will also be presented.

Course Objectives:

•  Obtain an overview of various natural earth building methods and techniques

•  Gain hands-on experience in two or more natural building methods

•  Explore individual and community-based design concepts

•  Understand possible alternative energy usage within natural building parameters

Suggested Reading :

Earth Construction Handbook , Gernot Minke

The Art of Natural Building , J. Kennedy, M. Smith and C. Wanek

What to Bring:

•  Work gloves and boots

•  Rubber gloves for plastering

•  Notebook

•  Sunscreen/Insect repellant

•  Thoughts and ideas about your own future project(s)

•  Enthusiasm and Energy!