Overview:

The Bamboo and Rammed Earth workshop is a 3 days immersive learning experience that offers the opportunity to learn the fundamentals of bamboo construction and rammed earth, while engaging in a unique self-inquiry in the company of an international team of mentors.  The workshop takes place in Auroville, a dynamic international community committed to sustainable living, radical experimentation and personal development.

BENEFITS & WHO IS THIS FOR?

The Bamboo and Rammed Earth workshop is perfect for Architect, Architect Students, Builders and  anyone who wants to gain skills and hands-on experience working with bamboo and rammed earth technique, one of the most eco-friendly building materials, while also exploring various aspects of sustainable living. It is for anyone who is concerned about building a more environmentally sustainable world. (e.g. engineers, architects, technicians, supervisors, masons, students and laymen).

An essential aspect of building a more sustainable world is the quality of the consciousness we bring to it.  Our outer environment – whether built or natural – reflects the state of our inner awareness.

PROGRAMME OUTLINE

The Bamboo and Rammed Earth workshop will take place over 3 days, covering full day intensive sessions offered daily from 9 AM to 5 PM.  The sessions are offered according to two areas of focus, as follows:

1. NATURAL BUILDING WITH BAMBOO

Bamboo is an eco-friendly natural resource known for its rapid growth. As a core component of the workshop, participants will gain the basic knowledge, skills and practice needed for bamboo construction, as well as technologies that use bamboo in combination with other materials.  Sessions include:

• Theory and practice of working with bamboo
• Treating bamboo against insects
• Bamboo carpentry: bending, cutting, joineries, split and weave bamboo
• Bamboo construction

After learning basic skills in bamboo technology, participants will help in making a bamboo structure and learn the know-how of building construction in the native tree.

2. BAMBOO AND RAMMED EARTH

Rammed Earth is an over 2,000 year-old construction technique. It is used for building walls and floors with raw materials of the earth i.e. clay, gravel and sand. These materials are mixed together and then rammed in a form work. The result, a strong, durable wall that lasts for centuries or longer adds character and a warm feeling to any architectural structure.

Rammed earth has a high thermal mass index which essentially means that it absorbs heat well without releasing it into the interior. Hence these walls provide a strong thermal insulation. This evens out daily temperature variations and reduces the need for air conditioning and heating.

The clay used, comes from the subsoil, leaving the topsoil for agricultural uses. Ideally the soil from the construction site can be used, thus reducing cost and energy of transportation. When the building is demolished, the earth walls return to the soil or can be recycled.

Outcome of the Workshop:

• The primary aim of the workshop is toprovide participants with the basic knowledge, skills and hands-on experience needed for building with bamboo and rammed earth. Throughout the 6 days there will be opportunities to interact with skilled architects, designers, engineers, researchers and carpenters.  Participants will learn how to design and construct an experimental, low-cost, climate-responsive house made of bamboo and rammed earth.
• In addition to bamboo and rammed earth construction, various aspects of sustainable living will be explored. An essential aspect of building a more sustainable world is the quality of the consciousness we bring to it. Our outer environment -whether built or natural – reflects the state of our inner awareness. For that reason, part of this workshopwill also focus on expanding self-awareness, exploring how “inner” space relates to the world we construct “outside”.

Things to bring for the workshop, (Optional)

• Loose and comfortable clothes for Site Work;
• Air Mask;
• Ear plugs;
• A Cap;
• Eye Protective Goggles;
• A Book and a Pen
• Tarch light

GENERAL INFORMATION

Programme Rate: Rs. 7000 * Includes:

• Lunch for 3 days ( vegetarian meals)
• Raw materials
• Refreshments twice a day
• Stationeries
• Certificate of attendance

1. Terms: 50% deposit of workshop fee required on booking with balance payable prior to commencement of workshop.
2. Cancellation:Up to 2 weeks before workshop commencement we retain 25% of total fee due. From 2 days to workshop commencement we retain the 50% total fee.

3. Notes:All booking communication is completed in writing by email. Auroville has a strict no alcohol or drugs policy. Anyone disregarding these rules will be requested to leave the community immediately and no refunds will apply.