Hands On Workshops

The first hands-on workshop of the GreeNest project, held at the Building Materials Laboratory of the National Technical University of Athens. The workshop brought together 30 architecture students to explore natural materials and sustainable construction techniques. The focus was on both education and experimentation, equipping future professionals with practical skills and a deeper understanding of ecological building approaches.

Students worked with light clay, a mix of straw and earth used in non-load-bearing walls, as well as a floor and ceiling system combining recycled timber and an earth screed, an alternative to conventional cement floors. The prototype used wooden dowels instead of glue or screws, creating a fully demountable structure, aligned with circular construction principles.

Guided by experts from NTUA, PILIKO, and TU Berlin, the participants learned how to assess, mix, and apply earth-based materials, testing their strength and workability by hand. The session emphasised how traditional materials can meet modern environmental and performance standards, and how learning by doing helps prepare the next generation of architects to build more responsibly.