EarthWall + Tadelakt Intensive · El Valle Retreats
The Art of Building with Earth
EarthLab returns for a second edition, a six-day EarthWall + Tadelakt intensive in El Valle, Samaná. Join for one day, two days, one complete three-day technique, or the full six-day programme.
The workshop
EarthLab is back for a second edition, a week of building with earth in El Valle, Samaná, led by the team at Terra Crua.
Two techniques, both hands-on. EarthWall (tapia pisada) runs three days, raising real rammed-earth walls for Anani Villas, a bioconstruction project taking shape in El Valle. Tadelakt runs three days, learning the polished, waterproof Moroccan lime finish.
This edition is built to be flexible. Join for a single day, two days, one complete three-day technique, or the full six-day EarthLab. We start with the theory, how the material actually works, then get to the real work on site. Mixing. Setting formwork. Tamping courses. Troweling the finish.
No prior experience is needed, but there's enough depth here for architects, engineers, and builders. Either way, you go home having built something real, with the technique in your hands.
Inside the process
You'll learn the principles first, then apply them in the field.
Theory
- Evolution: Explore the history and evolution of earth construction.
- Principles: Understand how rammed-earth walls gain their strength.
- Soil Analysis: Learn how to identify and test suitable soils.
- Mix Design: Create balanced mixes for strength and durability.
- Bioclimatic Design: Discover how buildings naturally respond to climate.
- Structural Design: Understand the fundamentals of earth-building structures.
- Quality Control: Ensure consistent results throughout the building process.
- Case Studies: Explore successful earth-building projects from around the world.
Hands-on
- Mix Preparation: Prepare earth mixes using proven techniques and methods.
- Formwork: Build and assemble the forms that shape each wall.
- Compaction: Master layer-by-layer compaction for lasting strength.
- Moisture Control: Manage moisture for durability and consistent performance.
- Surface Finishes: Create clean, refined finishes using traditional techniques.
- Site Workflow: Work efficiently as part of the building process.
- Problem Solving: Identify common issues and learn how to correct them.
Included · beyond the build
Nature, community and wellness, woven in.
EarthLab doesn't end on site. Shared meals at Leisy's Garden, a cacao circle, yoga, and breathwork with an ice bath run through the week, all in the nature of El Valle.
Movement in the garden
An intentional slow morning practice for recovery and restoration.
Breathwork + ice bath
A guided session to unwind and recover after a full day of meaningful physical work.
Cacao ceremony
A shared gathering rooted in local tradition, designed to bring our group together and taste the gifts of this land.
Come as you are
This workshop is for
Architects, engineers and builders
You'll go deeper into how earth structures work in practice, from soil to structure to finish.
Curious makers and students
No prior experience is needed. You'll learn everything on site through doing.
People who like working with their hands
A chance to spend a week building something real, getting hands-on with materials and being part of a shared process.
Who teaches it
Terra Crua
Both workshops are led by Terra Crua, an earth-building practice. With care and expertise, they developed this program. It is guided on-site, and the instructors are there to support you through every stage of the build. At the end of the week, they provide you with a certificate of participation.
Six days at EarthLab
EarthWall for three days, Tadelakt for three, join for any of it.
Friday 11 September
EarthWall · Day 1
Saturday 12 September
EarthWall · Day 2
Sunday 13 September
EarthWall · Day 3
Monday 14 September
Tadelakt · Day 1
Tuesday 15 September
Tadelakt · Day 2
Wednesday 16 September
Tadelakt · Day 3
“Before modern materials, most buildings were formed from the earth itself. What do we reconnect with when we build this way again?”
Packages
Choose the experience that fits your schedule.
Join for one day, two days, one complete three-day technique, or the full six-day EarthLab. All meals are included during your days, and accommodation is available separately from $25/night.
1 Day Pass
1 day · Any single day, 11–16 September
Training for the selected day, with all meals included.
$99
2-Day Pass
2 days · Any two days
Any two training days, with all meals included.
$189
Tapia Pisada / EarthWall
3 days · 11–13 September
The complete EarthWall intensive, with official Terra Crua training, a certificate, and all meals included.
$449
Tadelakt
3 days · 14–16 September
The complete Tadelakt intensive, with official Terra Crua training, a certificate, and all meals included.
$449
Full EarthLab
6 days · 11–16 September
EarthWall + Tadelakt, the complete programme, with Terra Crua certification and all meals included.
$799
How to reserve
A 50% payment confirms your place. The remaining balance is coordinated directly with you over WhatsApp, there's no online checkout for this edition. Places are limited.
Accepted payment methods
- Dominican bank transfer (DOP) — Banco Popular, in Dominican pesos. No processing surcharge.
- Dominican bank transfer (USD) — Banco Popular, in US dollars. No processing surcharge.
- US bank account — Available on request.
- PayPal — +6% processing fee.
- Revolut — +6% processing fee.
Where to stay
Accommodation, if you need it.
Rooms are separate and optional. A few options nearby, from a shared hostel bed to a private villa. Availability is confirmed directly over WhatsApp.
Shared hostel bed
Per person
Private room
Up to 2 people
Deluxe private room
Up to 2 people
Villa
Up to 3 people
Villa
Up to 4 people
Private pool house
Up to 8 people
Subject to availability · confirmed over WhatsApp.
Good to know
Questions, answered.
Can I join for just one part?+
Yes. Come for a single day, any two days, one complete three-day technique (EarthWall / Tapia Pisada, 11–13 September, or Tadelakt, 14–16 September), or the full six-day EarthLab at the best price.
What is tadelakt?+
Tadelakt is a traditional Moroccan lime plaster, polished with a stone and sealed with olive soap into a smooth, waterproof surface used on walls, sinks and baths. Over three days you learn to mix, apply and polish it.
Do I need building experience?+
No. Terra Crua teaches and directs, and we work as a group. You learn the recipe and the technique on site. There is also enough depth for architects, engineers and builders.
Is there a certificate?+
Yes. The three-day and Full programmes include official Terra Crua training and a certificate of participation for each technique you complete.
How physical is it?+
It is hands on and physical, in the heat. You will be mixing, lifting, tamping and troweling across the days. Tell us about any limitations and we will advise.
What should I bring?+
Closed shoes, clothes you do not mind getting muddy, sun protection, and a water bottle.
How do I get to El Valle?+
Fly into Samaná (AZS) or Santo Domingo, then take a road transfer to El Valle. We will help you plan the last leg over WhatsApp.
Where do I stay, and what about food?+
All meals are included during your participation days, shared at Leisy's Garden, and we cater to dietary needs. Accommodation is a separate, optional add-on from $25/night, with options from a shared hostel bed to a private villa, confirmed over WhatsApp.
What language is it in?+
English and Spanish.
How do reservations and payment work?+
A 50% payment confirms your place. We coordinate the balance and the payment details directly over WhatsApp, there's no online checkout for this edition. We accept Dominican bank transfer (DOP or USD), US bank transfer, PayPal and Revolut (PayPal and Revolut add a 6% fee).
Why earth
Rammed earth and lime are simple materials with an extraordinary track record. They're local, low-impact, and built to last. Instead of telling you why they're remarkable, we'd rather hand you the tools and let you discover it for yourself.
15 spaces · 11–16 September 2026
The Art of Building with Earth.
Second edition. Reservations are handled directly over WhatsApp, a 50% payment confirms your spot. Placeholder photos and final details still being confirmed.