Building with hemp lime (hempcrete)
The course provides an introduction to the theory and practice of building with hemp lime, also known as hempcrete, including how to use it in the repair and upgrading of old buildings.
Course Content
To build with hempcrete successfully, you need to have a proper understanding of the materials as well as good practical skills. The course has a mixture of practical and theory sessions.
There will be time for questions at the end of the day, but they are always welcome as we go along.
All equipment is provided for practical sessions.
By the end of the course, you will:
- have a good understanding of the basic method of hempcrete building, including the important dos and don’ts
- have gained practical experience of:
- building a section of new build hempcrete wall
- applying finishes to hempcrete
- insulating with hempcrete in a historic/traditional building context
- know the issues involved when choosing a hempcrete binder
- have learnt a little about the hempcrete building industry in the UK today
- have a basic understanding of the key theoretical and practical issues to consider when building with hempcrete, in both new-build and restoration
Who is this course suitable for?
This course is open to anyone aged 16 or over.
It is suitable for anyone interested in learning about hempcrete construction, whether you are planning your own project as a self-builder, architect, or contractor, or simply want to gain practical experience with the different ways of using this material.
No prior knowledge is assumed, so the course is suitable for complete beginners as well as those with some building experience.
Recommended introductory material
No prior reading is required.
The Hempcrete Book: Designing and building with hemp-lime: Co-written by UK Hempcrete director Alex Sparrow, this book was published in October 2014 and has been widely acknowledged as the definitive guide to this extraordinary “better-than-zero-carbon” natural construction material.
Course Tutors
Led by experienced tutors, including:
Alex Sparrow
Alex is co-director of UK Hempcrete, a UK company specialising in the use of hempcrete alongside other natural building materials. Alex and his partner William have been building with hempcrete since 2008 and provide consultancy and training to other builders, home owners and architects, as well as regularly speaking about the material at public events and writing on the subject. He is co-author of the definitive guide to using this innovative, better-than-zero-carbon building material, The Hempcrete Book: Designing and building with hemp-lime.
Mischa Hewitt
Mischa will support on this course. Mischa is a Sustainability Consultant and Project Manager with a particular interest in affordable low energy buildings from natural materials.
Course reviews & feedback
This two-day course runs from 9.00am to 5.30pm in Stanmer Park, Brighton.
2027 Course to be announced
2027 date to be announced
Venues
Earthship Brighton
Stanmer Park (near University of Sussex)
Brighton
Map & Directions
Sponsored / Organisation rate
£365
Individual income: more than 25k/yr
£365
Individual income: 18-25k/yr
£300
Individual income: less than 18k/yr
£235
Individual: Concessionary rate
£170
(check eligibility)
Concessionary places are limited.
Our commitment to affordability relies on voluntary support.
ACCOMMODATION
If you intend to book accommodation, please check availability before booking a place, as accommodation in Brighton can be hard to find, especially over the summer months.
Get details of local accommodation and Brighton Permaculture Trust supporters who can provide accommodation in their homes.
BOOKING
Booking is essential, as most of our courses/events are fully booked weeks in advance. However, if places are still available, then bookings can be made until midday the day before the course/event. A place is not secured until we have received the requested payment.
If you have completed the booking process but you haven’t received a confirmation email from us please contact us to check your booking has gone through.
If you are booking within two weeks of the event, or the event is nearly full, you will not have the option to pay by BACS. Instead, you will need to pay immediately using a credit/debit card or PayPal.
ACCESSIBILITY
Much of this course is hands-on and practical. It is possible to opt out and observe for any elements you are not comfortable with.
If you have any accessibility needs or concerns, please contact us in advance, and we will do our best to accommodate you.
Have questions?
For any enquiries or if you need further information, feel free to reach out. We’re here to help!