Workshop Experiences
Here are some written comments from previous workshop participants. We are always happy to provide the contact information of past participants if you wish to talk to one of them in person!
“This workshop exceeded my wildest hopes. In one week I feel fully prepared to construct my own home using natural materials. To top it all off, it was a blast. Early morning cob making sessions, afternoon instructionals, pond swims, delicious food and good company made this week unforgettable. I cannot overstate the value of this workshop. Worth every penny and then some!”
- Matt Sanderson, Philadelphia, PA
“Having lived in the city my whole life, it never would have occurred to me the efficiency and durability of cob building. It is a process that is cheaper, faster, and far more efficient than conventional building. This workshop was an eye opener. Coenraad knows his stuff.”
- Jason Potoski, Golden, Colorado
“Cob building with Coenraad is an empowering process of turning earth and ideas into a portfolio of tools that enable you to build an inspirational life. More than the basics of sand straw and clay, this is a powerful workshop that brings people and the earth together to lead a simpler life. Corny jokes and great food are the cherry on top of what has been one of the most worthwhile weeks of my life.”
- Rebecca Wolfe, Port Townsend, Washington
“Coenraad has a great wisdom of living a way where we fit with our natural surroundings. Cob is just the start, you learn all the things you need to know to build a house and feel empowered to do so but you’ll also pick up a few things that just might improve your quality of life. A visit to house alive is worth it alone, the amazing food and mud are just a bonus.”
- Adam, Port Townsend WA
“That was definitely the best week I have had in a long time, maybe ever. By day four I was ready to go home, not because I didn’t love the workshop, but because I felt at this point in the workshop I had gained the knowledge needed to build my dream home. I am glad I stuck around. I have learned so much more than I expected, and most importantly my confidence in building with cob has increased ten-fold. On a more personal note Coenraad and his family made the experience (for lack of a better word) magical. Thank you very much Coenraad, Khaliqa, Rosie, and Julian for making this experience one I will cherish for ever.”
- Scott Keller, Springfield, OR
“House Alive is truly beautiful and inspiring. I was really moved when I was there and I felt alive. Natural building is important to me. It is about figuring out what is really important to you and how you really want to live your life. It means making changes to live fully and responsibly. It is a lifestyle and a great one at that! I loved the fact that cob is so earthy and creative, it feels so good and the workshop did give us the basics to building. I also really appreciated the way that you presented your ideas. I mean the way you talked about designing your house so that you can connect with people and the earth. Especially to connect with family, you want a home that is a little smaller and easy to share time and conversations with. To build as though you belong there and don’t over do it. I like the way you talked about having one entrance and have it be warm and inviting. I loved that you talked so kindly and meaningful, you really touched me in that way, thanks for that! You are a great teacher, a beautiful man and you have a beautiful and wonderful family!! You are all pretty awesome and I thank you for sharing your skills and your home (pretty much) to pass on some important skills and knowledge. It felt really great to be so excited and moved by something, it has been awhile!”
– Jennifer Knox, Reno, NV
“This course was a terrific exploration of natural building materials, small space design and living in our environment with a positive impact.”
— Rick, Wisconsin.
“The simplicity and directness of your teaching have enabled me (and my previous utter lack of building skills) to gain a level of self-confidence that I did not think would be possible in such a short time.”
— Tony, Mexico.
“Thanks for sharing so willingly all your knowledge with me and bringing me so much closer to my dream of building my own house.”
— Paul, Oregon.
“Many thanks to you and your family for teaching, sharing, playing, and loving what you do.”
— Maya, Colorado.
“Wow, what a week! Thanks. I liked the way it just flowed. It felt good to be reminded to listen to my heart.”
— Cosmo, Oregon.
“Coenraad’s relaxed but very focused approach to directing the course allowed me to connect with the cob house we were building with deep sincerity – from my heart and soul. I left feeling empowered not only to build a natural house but to live in a way that truly reflects my ecological and communal values.”
— Jason, California.
“Thank you for such a stimulating, fun and inspiring week. I am so glad I choose to participate in this workshop. I feel inspired by the simplicity and effectiveness of the technologies we have learned this week.”
— Nigel, Oregon.
“My wife and I want to build a strawbale house but were unsure of what it would take, or how much we could do ourselves. Now, after 1 week, we have confidence and know-how.”
— Greg and Leila, Oregon.