This hands-on experience will provide participants with the rare opportunity to work alongside master rammed earth builder and Aerecura co-founder, Graham Cavalier, learning how to design and construct decorative and functional hardscape features using rammed earth techniques. The result of the weekend will be a permanent rammed earth landscape feature on site at Dropseed.
Day One: Form Building and Structure Construction
After introductions, participants will dive into a brief history of rammed earth building practices, and learn about the environmental benefits this offers your clients. Together and with guidance we will begin the process of preparing forms for the structure and start the building process. You will be involved in all aspects, including filling and ramming, with Graham offering an in-depth walk-through and explanation of each step. The day will feature opportunities for participants to engage with Graham and utilize his knowledge of the processes, ask questions, and deepen their understanding of the Aerecura rammed earth techniques. We will break for one hour for lunch. You are welcome to wander the paths through the forest at Dropseed, or zip over to the cute town of Milford to grab a baked good.
Day Two: Plant and Design Discussion
Graham will complete the finishing touches before the structure is revealed. You’ll be taken on a tour of Dropseed’s nursery and learn about the benefits of using native plants in your landscaping projects, and the value they offer your clients. We will focus on the shared values of native perennials, garden design, and the integration of rammed earth into building practices. A planet-first perspective!
After our nursery tour, the forms will be removed and the permanent rammed earth structure -that you built!- will be revealed. We’ll take a group photo and answer any lingering questions about the processes. This workshop is a fantastic opportunity to gain hands-on experience while engaging in thoughtful discussions about sustainable design practices.
Dropseed is located at 1099 Old Milford Rd, just between Picton and Milford.
Local accommodation suggestions: Waring House, Harbour Inn, Jackson Falls Inn
Pricing:
Early Bird Until April 30: $250+hst
Regular Pricing: $300+hst
Contact Information:
Owner Name: Riley Gund, Dropseed Native Plant Nursery (host site)
For all questions, please email us at: hello@dropseed.ca
Any questions regarding the rammed earth component of the workshop will be forwarded to Graham Cavalier, of Aerecura Sustainable Builders
https://www.aerecura.ca/
https://www.dropseed.ca/