What are we up to?

Alongside our passion for alternative clothing, alternative building methods have also captivated us…

Yes, we've done it again. We're currently working on one of our most exciting projects: a small, old clay house in Portugal. We don't know exactly how old it is. Houses in the municipality were officially recorded starting in 1951, and anything built before that is simply described as “from before.” This house was once built in the traditional way from rammed earth. Without plaster, the walls may look dusty and dirty, but appearances are deceiving. Behind this unassuming surface are 60-cm-thick clay walls that provide not only excellent stability but also a perfect indoor climate.

The house is located in a historic Portuguese town built on a slope. Yes, a slope. That's why we first had to dig a 1.5-meter-deep trench around the house to install drainage that would protect it from water. Our goal is to get the house dry. Instead of sealing it and insulating it against damp, we want to let it breathe. This only works with natural materials. In Portugal, walls are often plastered with concrete. We prefer clay on clay or, where that isn't possible, a suitable lime plaster.

Right now, it takes quite a bit of imagination to see a cozy little haven in this cottage. But that's precisely what makes the process so exciting. We get to dream, let our imaginations run wild, and connect with this house—to the people who will live in it over the coming decades and seek shelter, security, peace, and serenity here.

At the moment, we're roughly halfway through the renovation phase—or at least we think we are. This week, we're eagerly awaiting the delivery of three large big bags of clay plaster. Although a project like this always involves a great deal of stress and sometimes even tears, we still see many benefits in it. Over the past few weeks, we've acquired numerous practical skills. Thanks to the support of many helpers and extensive research online, we've gained a solid understanding of alternative building methods.

 

So please don't be too hard on us if you don't hear much from us over the next few weeks. We'll keep you up to date and occasionally take you along on this exciting journey.

Ridgefest... :)

Are you interested in our project? Then simply send us an email at info@virblatt.de.

Your sometimes slightly crazy, but always positive virblatt team!