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Join WeCanMake, Material Cultures and the RIOT Lab EPFL for a live build programme this autumn, exploring how we can use natural materials in construction, and how the process of building or retrofitting a home offers the chance to reimagine and reconnect our relationship with land, materials and people.
Through October and November, two 3x4m insulated sheds are being constructed at the Springfield Community Allotment to provide year-round shelter for local group We Are More, and the wider community.
As part of this live build project, WeCanMake, Material Cultures, and the RIOT Lab EPFL – invite you to to participate in a learning journey over three natural material workshops, where you will learn the theory and practical hands-on techniques of working with straw, lime and clay in construction. The project is generously funded and supported by a Project Grant from the Swiss National Science Foundation, in the context of the RIOT Lab project Material Strategies: Biobased Insulation and REused Timber Towards a Decarbonized Construction Sector.
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▦ 3-4 October 2025, 9:00-18:00
▥ Springfield Community Allotments, BS4 1AL
▨ Facilitated by Barbara Jones
Credit: Henry Woide
This workshop offers practical techniques for using locally sourced straw bales to insulate existing buildings. An introduction will be given by Barbara Jones, who will provide an overview of the contemporary practices of straw construction. Participants will learn how to arrange and fasten the bales securely, creating solid, well-constructed walls. The workshop will cover the basics of using straw bales as a building material, focusing on methods appropriate for external wall insulation.
To find out more and book your spot, visit Eventbrite.
https://straw-workshop-WCM.eventbrite.co.uk
Barbara Jones is a pioneering natural builder and educator, passionate about creating affordable, healthy homes using natural materials. With a background in mainstream construction and years of experience in strawbale building, Barbara has been at the forefront of the movement since 1995. Through the School of Natural Building (SNaB), she mentors self-builders and teaches across the UK. She is the author of the acclaimed manual Building with Straw Bales , and has received multiple awards for her groundbreaking work, including the CIOB’s "World’s Best Woman Builder." As a designer of innovative, cement-free foundations and an advocate for EcoCocon straw panels, Barbara continues to innovate how we think about sustainable building.
▦ 13-14 October 2025, 9:00-18:00
▥ Springfield Community Allotments, BS4 1AL
▨ Facilitated by Rowena Bashforth
Credit: Henry Woide
This workshop offers an introduction to the traditional and contemporary use of lime in building, with a focus on rendering directly onto straw bale walls. Participants will learn about the properties of lime, its role in breathable wall systems, and how it supports healthy, low-carbon retrofits.
Through demonstrations and hands - on sessions, you'll gain experience preparing lime mixes, applying base and finish coats, and working with different tools and techniques.
The first two days (13-14 October) will include site orientation, talks, and guided practical sessions. Participants are then welcome to stay for an additional three build days (15-17 October) to deepen their skills and contribute to a live project.
To find out more and book your spot, visit Eventbrite. https://lime-workshop-wcm.eventbrite.co.uk
Rowena Bashforth is a retrofit specialist and natural builder with a focus on low-carbon construction and heritage craft. As a qualified Retrofit Coordinator, Futureproof approved builder and member of the BWCE Home Energy team, Rowena supports homeowners in making their homes more energy-efficient through practical, accessible retrofit solutions. With experience in lime plastering, thermal imaging and environmental workshops, Rowena brings a hands-on, people-focused approach to low-carbon building.
▦ 3-4 November 2025, 9:00-18:00