The Active Site: Earthen Building
with Lola Byron
We’re skipping the classroom lectures and heading straight to where the magic happens: a live building site. Following the success of our previous workshops, we are returning to the structural bones of our farmer’s house. Set within the quiet beauty of the Southern Portuguese cork forests, this course is designed to give you a "boots-on-the-ground" perspective of what it actually takes to build a home from the earth.
Guided by Lola Byron, you’ll see how architectural theory meets real-world problem-solving. This isn't just a demonstration; you are joining a collective effort to advance a beautiful, living project.
Why Natural Building?
Building with earth is an act of reclaiming our connection to the landscape. It’s simple, honest, and profoundly effective.
Breathable Living: Natural walls "breathe." They naturally regulate humidity and filter the air, creating a home that feels fresh and alive rather than stagnant and synthetic.
Thermal Intelligence: By balancing the thermal mass of clay with the insulation of straw, we create spaces that stay naturally cool during the peak of summer and hold onto their warmth when the nights turn chilly.
Low Impact, High Connection: We use what the land provides—clay, sand, and timber. The result is a nearly zero-carbon footprint and a structure that, eventually, can return to the earth without a trace.
Empowerment for Everyone: Natural building doesn't require a degree in engineering. It is a collaborative, accessible process that invites people of all ages and backgrounds to get their hands in the mud.
-
If you’ve ever looked at a modern house and felt a disconnect, or if you're dreaming of building your own sanctuary one day, this is for you. Whether you are a total beginner or have some experience under your belt, the atmosphere is one of support and resourcefulness. We believe every role on a site is vital—every hand that mixes cob or lays a brick is a step toward a more sustainable future.
-
This is a fast-paced, practical experience. You’ll learn the "rhythm" of a building site—how to handle raw materials, how to work as a team, and how to trust your hands.
Hands-on Action: From day one, you’ll be working directly on the timber round house.
Contextual Theory: We don't just tell you how; we explain why. Discussions happen naturally as we work, supplemented by evening slideshows and films to deepen the context.
Ongoing Resources: You’ll leave with more than just memories; you’ll gain access to our digital library to support your own projects long after the course ends.
-
The Practical Side:
Testing clay sub-soils to find the "perfect mix" for your land.
Mastering the art of Adobe brick-making and wall construction.
Mixing and applying Cob and Slip Straw in various forms.
Foundational knowledge of ecological systems and site design.
Confidence in using power tools and basic carpentry/woodwork.
The Theory Side:
Ecological House Design: How to work with your climate rather than against it.
The "Why" of Natural Building: Understanding the science behind the breathability and efficiency of earth.
Global Perspectives: Exploring building techniques used around the world and why they work.
About Lola — Course Facilitator
Lola Byron is a Permaculture and Natural Building facilitator, practitioner and consultant. After travelling the globe with her young family, connecting with Permaculture projects, she now lives, works, teaches, builds and raises her 2 children in Southern Portugal. Originally from Birmingham, England, she has been a thriving Permaculturist and natural builder since completing her PDC back in 2010. Following this, she was an active urban Permaculturist, designing and implementing various community gardens and co-facilitating natural building and gardening workshops in and around the UK. With a background in studying, then teaching, Fine Art, Sculpture, when she discovered Permaculture and Natural Building, she knew she had found her calling in life. Lola recently founded The Women Natural Building Collective, a safe and empowering learning space and network for women builders worldwide. She has built and taught internationally, spent 3 years as the Natural Building Manager at Panya Project, Thailand, and has been a consultant and project manager with Surplus Permaculture Design since 2017.
Location & Stay
A Quinta da Lage is a working off-grid permaculture farm in Southern Portugal, featuring wild forests and freshwater springs.
Included in the fee:
● 3 wholesome vegetarian meals/day (Vegan/GF available with prior notice).
● All tools, materials, and a custom WNBC course handout
● Stays in your own campervan/tent is included in the price
Prices
505€ with your own caravan or tent
565€ with accommodation in dormitory
We have private cottages, rooms and bell tents available, if you prefer this option please contact us to inquire about availability and pricing.
Your course fee supports both our facilitators and the ongoing regenerative projects at A Quinta.
How to Book:
Click "Book Now" to fill out our registration form.
After submitting, you will be redirected to Stripe to pay a non-refundable deposit to secure your spot.
The remaining balance is due upon arrival (Cash or Bank Transfer).