Rammed Earth
Fundamentals
Master the art and engineering of building with raw earth. A 3-day intensive on soil science, formwork, and pneumatic compaction.
Geology as
Architecture
Rammed earth is a sophisticated composite of sand, gravel, and clay. The secret lies in the precise ratio of aggregates and moisture content.
Sieve Analysis
Learn how to test your local soil through jar tests and sifting to find the ideal particle distribution for structural stability.
Clay Mineralogy
Understand the binding properties of different clays and how they interact with hydration levels during compaction.
Pneumatic Force & Precision Forms
Formwork Design
Learn to build high-pressure forms using laminated plywood and heavy-duty walers to contain the massive lateral forces of compaction.
01Compaction Rhythms
Master the use of pneumatic rammers to compress loose earth into a stone-like monolithic structure. Learn the 'hollow' vs 'solid' strike sound.
02Thermal Curing
Understand how rammed earth cures over time, increasing in strength while providing incredible thermal lag properties for passive cooling.
03
Thermal Lag
Walls absorb solar heat during the day and release it slowly at night, stabilizing interior temperatures.
Building for a
Century
Rammed earth is not just a building material; it's a climate solution. With near-zero embodied carbon and incredible thermal performance, it is the future of resilient desert housing.
- Seismic reinforcement strategies
- Moisture protection & weather layering
- Fire resistance up to 4 hours
- Zero-VOC healthy indoor air quality
The High Desert
Proving Ground
Our Desert Lab in Joshua Tree provides the perfect environment to test the limits of earthen construction. Experience the process in the same climate where these structures truly shine.
All-Inclusive: Soil Testing Tools, Compaction Safety Gear, Desert Lab Lunches, Construction Resource Pack.
Enroll NowApply for the
Fundamentals
Rammed earth construction is physically demanding and technically precise. We welcome architects, builders, and owner-builders eager to get their hands in the dirt.