natural building
projects
Explore ongoing and past projects featuring a growing range of structures, styles, and materials that reflect some of what's possible with natural building and artistry. This living archive reflects what we’re building and who we’re building with.
The Canvas: Wattle and Daub Wall in St. Thomas, Jamaica
St. Thomas, Jamaica
This wall is created from a structure of wood and bamboo (the wattle) that was infilled with an earthen mix of soil, sand, coconut coir and lemongrass then finished in natural plasters suitable for both indoor and outdoor environments. The exterior, polished lime-sand plaster is water-resistant while the interior plaster is mostly clay-based and textured. Simple relief sculpting techniques were used to depict a central core from which patterns radiate differently on either side - representative of the union between that which both unifies The core) us and makes us unique (the periphery)
Durga's Den Earthen Bathroom Rehabilitation - Jamaica
Ocho Rios, Jamaica
This outdoor bathroom project at Durga’s Den in Jamaica involved the rehabilitation of existing cob walls, finished with a natural lime and sand plaster. The restoration improved durability and moisture resistance while maintaining breathability, creating a refreshed, healthy, and resilient space that honors traditional earthen construction.
The Cosmic Macajuel- Rehab of Earthen Walls - Trinidad
Freeport, Trinidad
The Cosmic Macajuel CT at Wa Samaki was originally built in 2019 under the guidance of Fyto Sandavol. In 2024, the structure underwent wall rehabilitation during the Service Learning Program, where the walls were restored and protected using a lime-based plaster, extending the life of the building while maintaining breathability and durability.
Rocket Stove Collection
Trinidad and Jamaica
This collection of adobe rocket stoves showcases a variety of designs, spaces, and material combinations, all built using clay as the primary construction medium. Simple yet highly effective, these stoves demonstrate earth-based design to create efficient, low-cost cooking and heating solutions while highlighting the versatility of adobe.
The Forever Home - Wattle and Daub - Trinidad
Freeport, Trinidad
The Forever Home is a tiny house project at Samaki Ecosystems in Freeport, Trinidad, created as the future dwelling of Erle and Suz, who live and work on the farm. Built from the very earth on which it stands, this home is designed to be a deeply personal and permanent place of belonging; to live simply, sustainably and in harmony with the land.
The Dragon's Den - Cobbed Bench and Rehabilitation of an Earthen Floor - Trinidad
Freeport, Trinidad
The Dragon’s Den at Wa Samaki, Freeport, Trinidad, underwent an earthen floor rehabilitation following rain damage from a leaking roof. An earthen bench was also installed to help enclose the space, creating a more intimate and interactive environment while restoring function and comfort using natural building techniques.
Omi Devi Project- Micro Earthbag Dam at GWG Research Centre - Jamaica
St. Thomas, Jamaica
Omi Devi is a micro earthbag dam project at the GWG Research Center, designed to create a small-scale water catchment system from a natural stream. Built using earthbag construction techniques, the project supports water harvesting for on-site use, demonstrating practical, low-impact infrastructure for sustainable land and building systems.
feature
making natural paint
Premium Red Clay Paint
Made from red clay from the roadside, cactus juice, and linseed oil and loving intention — this natural finish is pure earthen alchemy. Join our courses to learn how how to make it.