Workshop “Practical Stereotomy: A Hip Roof from Layout to Assembly”
Stereotomy has been in use since before ancient Roman times and has been inscribed onto the List of the Intangible Cultural Heritage of Humanity by UNESCO in both the French and Japanese carpentry context. UNESCO has also inscribed the workshops themselves, in the German cathedral construction context, where this knowledge is transmitted. The use of stereotomy is what made possible the construction of the great temples, churches, cathedrals, and fortresses around the world, many of which have become UNESCO world heritage sites.
Unlike modern conventional methods relying on algebra and abstract formulas, stereotomy transforms the layout procedure into a concrete visual process, eliminating the need for complex calculations. No calculators or computers needed! Using this drawing technique, students will learn how to solve intricate problems like the backing angles while having equal rafter overhangs. Students will solve the angles and lengths of the jack rafters and its connections between the hip and top plates.
This course is designed for architects, builders, carpenters, and professionals in the construction industry seeking a holistic understanding of timber roof intricacies. By the end of the workshop, participants will have not only enriched their theoretical knowledge but also gained valuable practical skills, making them adept at navigating the challenges presented by complex roof designs.
The supervisor of the workshop is Pat Moore, the founder and owner of The Professional School of Practical Stereotomy, a small private professional school. He has been teaching stereotomy to carpenters, woodworkers, furniture makers, and timber framers worldwide since early 2014, following his induction as a fully fledged member of the ancient guild system – Les Compagnons Du Devoirs. This UNESCO-listed organization traces its roots back to the 13th century in France.
The workshop is part of the main program of the International Log Building Conference: Revitalizing Heritage, which attracts log house builders and enthusiasts from around the world to South Estonia. We strongly recommend extending your stay to participate in pre-conference tours, engage with professionals at the conference, and witness the log house builders’ competition.
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Dates: The workshop takes place on both May 20 and 21, running from 9 AM to 5 PM each day.
Group: The course is designed for non-Estonian speakers and will be conducted in English. The group is limited to 25 participants. No specific skills are required for participants. This workshop is designed to accommodate individuals with various levels of experience, from beginners to advanced practitioners, although if one has experience they will more likely capture and understand the learning outcomes and course material.
Training Site: The course will be hosted at the Vanaajamaja Center for Traditional Building and Craft, situated in the small village of Mooste in southern Estonia. The center, adjacent to the well-preserved Mooste Manor, features a renovated old grain dryer, a broad workshop with a two-story heritage-protected kiln oven, a seminar room exhibiting traditional building materials, a small kitchenette for coffee breaks, and a Finnish sauna. The list of needed tools will be announced separately, approximately a month before the workshop.
Accommodation: Accommodation is not included in the workshop price. Conference main accommodation partners are Mooste Manor and Mooste Distillery Guesthouse. Participants are encouraged to find suitable accommodation based on their preferences and make necessary bookings.
Cost: The workshop fee is 280€+VAT, covering lectures, materials, tools, and lunch. Participants are responsible for their own transport, travels, and extra-curricular costs.
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