Event

Nubian Vault Intensive

Instructor Stevan de la Rosa. In this course students will construct a Nubian vault, an ancient form of adobe structure that originated in Egypt, was rediscovered and popularized by populist architect Hassan Fathy, and is currently enjoying an international revival, especially in areas with very little wood availability. A Nubian vault enables the builder to create an arched vault (or a dome) without using any formwork, which means you can completely enclose a space using no wood whatsoever. This particular vault will be reinforced with bamboo to stabilize the adobe for the seismic loads of California. In addition to basic adobe masonry and hands-on vault construction, this workshop will cover Nubian vault design, roofing/waterproofing options, arch layout and construction, earthen mortars and plasters. Previous earthen construction experience is helpful but not required; students with no experience should consider attending the Cob and Adobe Intensive in August. $500, or $450 if you pay in full by August 15.