Natural Building Workshops: A Journey into Sustainability and Creativity
Join us for a transformative experience this fall at the Natural Building Workshops, a unique collaboration between Alex from Bisque-kit, Ania from Ania Natural Materials, and Jenny from Ark Eden. This hands-on series is designed to introduce participants to sustainable building techniques, reconnect them with nature, and nurture creativity in the process.
Our expert instructors bring a wealth of knowledge and diverse experience from around the globe:
- Alex Stewart-Long is a registered architect and certified passive house designer with over 12 years of experience in sustainable architecture.
- Ania Chorzępa is an architectural designer, builder, and expert in natural materials, working with earth and fiber-based construction methods.
- Jenny Quinton is a pioneer in eco-education and permaculture, and the founder of Ark Eden, a permaculture community in Hong Kong.
Together, these three professionals bring expertise in architectural design, hands-on natural building, and environmental sustainability to create an unforgettable learning experience.
Earth Sgraffito (November 29th - 30th)
2-Day Sgraffito Workshop: Master the Art of Clay Plastering
Discover the fascinating world of sgraffito, an ancient decorative technique used in clay plastering to create intricate, textured designs by scratching through a layer of material to reveal contrasting colors beneath. This method, originating from Italy, has been used for centuries in architecture and art, offering a unique way to add depth and detail to surfaces.
In this 2-day workshop, you'll learn both the history and the hands-on practice of sgraffito.
Day 1: We begin with an introduction to the history and theory behind sgraffito, exploring its cultural significance and uses throughout time. Then, you'll dive into the practice by collaborating on a large wall design, learning the technique together as you scratch through layers of clay and pigment.
Day 2: On the second day, you'll have the opportunity to design and execute your own personalized sgraffito artwork. We will guide you through the process of creating custom colors from mineral pigments and clay, as well as incorporating natural elements like crushed shells and glass for added texture and vibrancy.
By the end of the workshop, you’ll leave with your own unique sgraffito piece, a deeper understanding of this ancient technique, and the skills to incorporate it into future creative projects.
In between your morning and afternoon workshops, participants will enjoy a freshly made vegetarian buffet lunch and light refreshments are available through out the day.
Practical Information
- Location: Ark Eden near Mui Wo on Lantau Island, Hong Kong – just a short ferry ride from central.
- What’s Provided: All materials, equipment, refreshments, and lunch.
- What to Bring: Please bring a reusable water bottle.
- Who is this suitable for:The workshop is open to both adults and children. If younger children would like to come along and play with the clay they are welcome to. *Children under the age of 6 are free but must be accompanied by an adult.
- Fitness Level: The location is accessible by paved paths but requires a moderate walk from Mui Wo town center. A basic level of fitness is recommended.
Participants will receive a comprehensive information package upon ticket purchase, which will include details on how to get to the site, what to wear, and other essential information.
Special Discounts:We offer discounted prices for students with a valid student ID.
Whether you're passionate about sustainable living, keen to try new creative skills, or simply curious about building with natural materials, this series of workshops will empower you to make a meaningful connection to the earth and learn new skills that can last a lifetime.
NOTE: A one day ticket is available for students. This is only available for saturday's session.
For any questions please email: hibisquekit@gmail.com or visit our instagram page @bisque.kit
Terms and Conditions:
- Tickets are non-refundable but you are welcome to transfer as long as the participant has the ticket on the day of the event.
- We have covered areas so the event will go ahead unless weather conditions are unsafe.
- All children must be accompanied by an adult for the duration of the event.
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Information on other workshops in this series:
We’re kicking off the series with a family-friendly day on 29th October that’s all about play, creativity, and getting in touch with nature. This relaxed and interactive workshop is ideal for children and families to explore natural building materials, create art, and try out basic building techniques in a fun, creative environment.
Specialist Workshops (November 1st - 30th)
Following the family day, our specialized workshops dive deeper into natural building methods and are perfect for adults and older children. These workshops combine learning with hands-on experience as participants work on a live project and see their efforts come to life!Workshops include:
- Building with Excavated Earth + Adobe Brick Making(Available on November 1st & 15th)
- Adobe Wall Building + Incorporating Glass Bottles(Available on November 2nd & 16th)
- Plastering with Earth(Available on November 8th & 22nd)
- Earth Wall Art(Available on November 9th & 23rd)
- Earth Sgraffito (2-Day Workshop)(Available on November 29th-30th)
Discounted Workshop Packages:Participants can choose to attend one individual workshop or purchase a discounted package for 4 workshops. Each workshop is offered on two dates, so you can pick the dates that work best for you. Please return to the event collection page to see these offers.
Statement of Intent:
The Earth Building Workshop Series, hosted by Bisque-kit in collaboration with Ark Eden and Ania Chorzępa, is a temporary, educational initiative focused on teaching natural building methods in a hands-on and environmentally conscious way.
The project is not commercial in nature and is intended to support environmental education, community engagement, and creativity. All structures built during the workshops are:
- Non-habitable
- Constructed using biodegradable, non-toxic, and locally sourced materials
- Lightweight and temporary in nature
- Not connected to utilities (water, electricity, or sewer)
Any elements constructed during the workshops are either:
- Naturally decompose after the end of the series.
- Designed to remain as a temporary art or learning installation under supervision
The goal is to explore sustainable construction techniques while minimizing environmental impact and remaining respectful of existing planning and building regulations.
The team commits to responsible site use, maintaining safety and cleanliness at all times, and keeping communication open with relevant authorities and the local community.
Workshop Safety & Participation Disclaimer
All participants in the Earth Building Workshop Series do so at their own risk. While the activities are designed to be low-risk and suitable for beginners, they involve natural building materials such as clay, sand, straw, bamboo, and tools like trowels or shovels.
By attending, participants acknowledge that:
-They will follow the instructions of the workshop leaders at all times
-They understand the nature of the physical activities involved, including manual mixing, lifting, and sculpting with earth materials
-Children under 16 must be supervised by a parent or designated responsible adult
The organizers will provide basic protective items (e.g. gloves), hydration stations, and shaded areas, but recommend that participants bring appropriate clothing, footwear, and sun protection.
The workshop area will be kept clean and hazard-free to the best of our ability, and the team reserves the right to stop or adjust any activity for safety reasons.
