Workshop: Dome and vault buildingReader submitted

In March and April we are offering at Awhi Farm a chance to join us to learn about building vaults and domes from pressed bricks. We began this journey in January and will continue in March and April until completion.

The earthbag house is getting a roof made of pressed brick domes and vaults.

In this workshop you will learn how to build using the ground from under your feet – very low cost but very long lasting. This technique is an example of sustainable practice.

The people working on the domes include Javier, a Spanish architect with experience in dome building; Bryan, Awhi Farm Trustee, who has experience with earthbags and with pressed bricks, vaults and domes.

What will be covered

• How to make pressed bricks
• Identifying appropriate materials and suitable proportions for optimal results
• Understanding the composition of the earth suitable for bricks
• How to lay bricks
• How to calculate, design and build step-by-step:
• A catenary dome and vault as a roof.
• A shallow dome and vault as a separation between the two storeys (first floor)
• Building vaults over the windows as eaves for protection and aesthetics
• Adjust the design according to materials available. We will be working with local materials (pumice, clay)
• Appropriate shapes for earthquake resilience
• Plastering and ceramic mosaic finishing for the dome and vaults

Logistics, dates and cost

• The workshop is offered during the weekends: March: 16-17th, 23-24th, 29-31st April: 6-7th, 13-14th.
• Bring: Clothes that can get dirty and protect you from too much sun or rain; gloves to protect your hands; a good torch (we are not on mains power); 2 towels (one for the hot pools); any special food you need to keep you happy!
• During the week we will continue the building, but instructions will be about getting good results in practice, rather than the theory.
• Booking essential. Fill form below and email to [email protected]
• Cost: Sliding scale $150 – $200 ($50 deposit) including meals
• On site camping including showers available. Koha please for accommodation.
• Number of students limited to 10 at any one time.

For more information, please visit our web site www.awhifarm.com.

Do you want to see what’s happening at Awhi Farm? Now you can watch the video Domes and Vaults Building.