This August the Irish Architecture Foundation and 12th Field join forces with Common Knowledge for an exciting Bog Bothy Building Workshop, testing methods for building sensitively on the unique landscape of Ireland’s peatlands.

As part of the Bog Bothy project, this 4-day course will look at the history, culture and ecology of the bog, leading up to practical build sessions, testing ways to build on Common Knowledge’s own bog.

Over the weekend, participants will work together to co-design and construct a stable bothy structure on the challenging terrain of the bog.

Participants will learn about the cultural landscape of Ireland’s bogs – exploring its design heritage, looking at traditional construction methods in wetlands, contemporary materials and approaches and relevant case studies. Members of Ireland’s peatlands communities will be present to talk about their experience of the bog and the issues facing those making the transition from peat harvesting.

Bog Bothy works with peatland communities to create bog bothies as spaces for shelter, retreat and deep engagement with this changing landscape.  It is a partnership between the Irish Architecture Foundation and 12th Field, and is funded by Creative Ireland under their Creative Climate Action II – Agents for Change programme.

Common Knowledge is a non-profit social enterprise based deep in the Burren, on Ireland’s beautiful west coast. They share skills in building, making, mending and growing, because they believe that between us all, we have the knowledge needed to create a truly sustainable future.

gaplab opportunity

If you’re a recent graduate of architecture or an early-career architect you may be eligible for a fully subsidised place on this workshop through the IAF gaplab programme.

Please fill out this form if you wish to be considered for this excellent opportunity.

For more information contact reimagine@architecturefoundation.ie.

Photo courtesy of Common Knowledge.