Building with earth encourages one to fully reevaluate how a living space should feel.  Our eyes are opened to the beauty of a wall covered with clay plaster, alive with subtle variations of texture, color, and light.  Cob and straw-bale walls impart solidity and shelter in a profound way.  Structures and surfaces built by hand convey that they were built by people, for people, thus creating a nurturing experience for the sheltered.  In contrast, modern industrial materials and design hide the humanity of the creator and frequently expose inhabitants to toxins.  Until we are experience an alternative to sterile flat walls covered in plastic paints, we don't really know what we are missing.   

The principles and techniques of natural building offer meaningful and sustainable alternatives to conventional construction. 

• Materials such as sand, clay soil, and stone, are minimally processed, locally sourced, non-toxic, and easily recycled.
• Construction processes are simple and easily learned.
• Structures are beautiful, healthful, and extremely durable.
• Collaborative construction brings people and communities together.

As a sculptor and natural builder I contract projects for individuals and organizations.  When teaching I lead workshops on cob, straw bale, clay and lime plasters, earthen floors, wood fired cob ovens,  rocket masonry heaters and Rumford fireplaces.  I work to support individuals and organizations who dream of natural buildings often working with them to host workshops at their sites.

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