Thursday 21 March 2024, 10am to 5pm

Reed Hall, Exeter University

Cob and earth buildings can last for hundreds of years if well maintained and correctly repaired. However, many modern repair methods have disastrous consequences for cob and other traditional forms of earth construction, and most owners and their contractors
are unaware of the risks. As a result, thousands of cob buildings across the UK are under threat.

This day conference is organised by the south-west branch of the Institute of Historic Building Conservation to explore the traditional use of earth as a construction material, and the lessons to be learnt for the future of these amazing buildings and this most sustainable of construction systems.
Speakers will include leading specialists from the University of Plymouth’s School for Architecture, Design and Environment, the CobBauge project, EBUKI (Earth Buildings UK & Ireland), and Historic England, as well as leading practitioners and consultants in the region.

Topics covered
• The historic use of cob and earth mortars in the construction of buildings in the British Isles and in the South West in particular
• The factors influencing the performance of cob and earth mortars
• The best way to repair and maintain traditional and modern cob and earth structures, and what happens when you don’t use the right materials and skills
• The use of cob as a highly sustainable, zero-carbon construction system for new buildings and extensions.

Bookings are now open. In-person places are limited, so it is advisable to book early.

Attendance fees
This will be a hybrid event. Those attending in-person will get to see and handle fresh earth mortar in one of the sessions which will be filmed for those attending virtually.

The in-person fee includes buffet lunch and refreshments.

In-person 
IHBC Members £60.00
Non-members £75.00

Virtual (online)

IHBC Members £25.00 (no VAT)
Non-members £32.00 (no VAT)

Free places: Several free places will be available for virtual attendance, so if you are not currently in full-time employment, please email Jill Himsworth at southwest@ihbc.org.uk.

CPD: The IHBC Cob & Earth Day contributes six hours towards your CPD, particularly in IHBC Areas of Competence 2) Practice and 8) Technology. Certificates are available on request