sol design - natural building

Description of 7-Day workshops

This week-long straw bale design and construction workshop will be a blend of both theory (classroom) and practical (hands-on) experience.  Your instructors will guide you through each step of the building process, from foundations to finish work. There will be an introduction to the art and science of straw bale building, the many techniques and components of a wall system as well as design considerations.  During the week, you will build a straw bale landscape wall.  You will gain experience in both post and beam as well as hybrid building systems, discuss and then apply earth and lime plasters. 

We will inform you of the NZ Standards and Codes that you will have to meet, give suggestions on approaching and working with your local Council and describe methods with which to get your project a building consent! 

During the week we will also tour local straw bale homes and enjoy evening slide shows.  Come prepared to learn a lot and gain some hands-on experience building straw bale wall systems!

Workshop Topics

• Site Analysis
• Design Considerations
• Wall Systems
• Foundation & Roof Options
• Moisture & Building Science
• Weathertightness Details
• Plaster Systems
• Building Codes
• Insurance & Financing
• Healthy & Creative Building Material Use
• Lessons Learned
• House Tours

Accommodation & Meals

Learning and living together during this workshop provides a unique atmosphere for all participants.  Great conversations and continued learning occur over shared meals.  We encourage all participants to take advantage of this opportunity to live & learn at Struan Farm for the week.

Struan Farm, 7kms north of Geraldine, is where you will call home for this 7-day workshop.  With the Four Peaks as it’s backdrop, this 18-acre haven borders the Orari River and is full of bird song and growing native plantings.  The dormitory style accommodation will be provided on a first come, first serve basis.  Linens & pillows are provided.  Tent sites are available for campers.  Campers will be able to utilize the shower & toilet facilities on-site, but will need to bring all camping equipment.

Three hearty meals per day + morning, afternoon tea & supper will be available for all participants.  Vegetarian meals are available if requested.  If you are vegan or have specific meal needs, there are facilities available for your use to prepare your own meals.  Please contact us for further details. 

Registration Details

If you are ready to sign up for a workshop, please complete the online registration form, include payment (via paypal or cheque).  A deposit of half the workshop fee is required to register for workshops.  Once your registration form and fee is received and processed, a registration package will be forwarded to you which will confirm your spot on the workshop. Full payment is due two weeks prior to the workshop start date.

If registration totals are not met, Sol Design, Ltd. reserves the right to cancel or postpone the workshop. Notifications and refunds to all registered participants will occur no later then two weeks prior to the workshop start date.

Cancellation Policy

All refunds will require a 25% processing fee.  A 75% refund will be given for cancellations received in writing two weeks prior to workshop start date.  “No Show” will not receive a refund.

Current Workshop Schedule

22-29 November 2015

February 2015

Registration Form

            -way to pay for workshops (paypal)

Private Access via username & passwords for past workshop participants

            -a place to download photos participants took

            -additional information that workshop participants can download from us

Frequently Asked Questions

Loving…a list of online resources

International Straw Bale Conference                         http://www.strawbaleconference.com/