Shelter & Construction

Building protection from the elements using only natural materials.

Making and using earth bricks for permanent, insulated structures.

Keeping warm in winter without fossil fuels. Thermal mass and insulation.

Choosing where to build. Flood risk, sun exposure, wind, and proximity to resources.

Traditional joinery and wood construction with hand tools.

Thatch, clay tiles, and wood shingles. Making roofs that last decades.

Dry-stone and mortared walls. Foundations that last without concrete.

Making and applying lime plaster for weatherproofing and hygiene.

Fitting openings that allow light and air while keeping out rain, wind, and pests.

Understanding loads, spans, and why buildings stand — or fall.

Spanning rivers and gullies with timber, stone, and rope. Load calculations.

Laying out a village for sanitation, defense, access to water, and future growth.