Building with Earth, Hemp and Straw

Get hands-on with earth, hemp and straw in this practical workshop on building with bio-based materials.

Work directly with earth, hemp and straw – materials with long histories and renewed relevance today. Mix and tamp earth for blockmaking and clay renders, cast hemp-lime composites for insulated wall systems and assemble straw-based insulation panels finished with natural plasters.

Led by educators and researchers Andre Bonnice (University of Melbourne) and Anna Jankovic (RMIT) from architectural practice Simulaa, these immersive sessions bridge practice, research and material experimentation. With small wall prototypes installed on site at MPavilion Parkville, you’ll not only have the chance to try low-impact construction for yourself, but you can also see these materials in action and how the assemblies behave at full scale.

After the Saturday workshop, stay for an informal conversation reflecting on the building process and material discoveries that emerged over the three days.

Workshops:

• Thursday 14 May, 11am–12.30pm & 1–2.30pm

• Friday 15 May, 11am–12.30pm & 1–2.30pm

• Saturday 16 May, 11am–12.30pm

Please wear clothes you don’t mind getting dirty and closed-toe shoes for the workshops. No prior experience is required, and all materials are non-toxic and safe to handle. 

Talk:

• Saturday 16 May, 1pm

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MPavilion Parkville is the University of Melbourne’s open-air space for art, ideas and experimentation. Learn more.