Beyond the Dome: Earthbag Building and a Hyperadobe Bench

Sometimes, a project isn’t just about the final product. It’s about the process, the collaboration, and the unexpected techniques you pick up along the way. That's what's on display in this latest video from the Double Dome Kanab Collab – and while the dome itself is impressive, it's the hyperadobe bench that really caught our eye.

We’ve all been there – admiring a woodworker’s shop, wishing we had the space or skill to build something similar. This video captures that feeling perfectly. The team is making excellent progress on the double dome, but the real surprise is the construction of a hyperadobe bench. It’s a testament to how much can be accomplished with readily available materials and a little ingenuity. Hyperadobe, essentially compressed earth blocks, offers a surprisingly robust and beautiful building method, especially for benches and outdoor furniture.

More Than Just a Bench

What’s striking is the speed of construction. The bench is reportedly coming together “really fast” and is expected to be finished in just a couple of days. That’s a pace most of us in the Rogue Carpenter world are familiar with – the satisfaction of seeing a project materialize quickly, allowing for adjustments and a rapid cycle of learning. It’s a far cry from the weeks or months sometimes required for complex cabinetry or furniture making.

Rogue Carpenter Connections

While we’re focused on woodworking and carpentry here in the Rogue Carpenter community, there’s a shared spirit of self-sufficiency and hands-on creation that connects us to builders of all kinds. This project highlights the overlap between different crafts – the structural considerations of framing and the finish work of a bench top. Think of the care a finish carpenter takes with trim work; the same attention to detail applies to shaping and finishing adobe. It's all about joining materials in a way that's both functional and beautiful.

This kind of collaborative build also reminds us of the value of sharing knowledge. The video mentions different people dropping in each day to help, a testament to the power of community and the willingness to learn from one another. It’s a model that aligns perfectly with the Rogue Carpenter ethos: building things, sharing skills, and growing together.

Looking Ahead

The team is moving on to plastering and finishing work next week, a critical stage in any build. It's where the true character of the structure emerges. For those inspired by this project, consider experimenting with hyperadobe techniques in your own shop. A simple bench or planter box can be a great starting point. And for those eager to learn more, Tiny Shiny Home’s website (tinyshinyhome.com) offers opportunities to join in on future builds. Keep an eye out for Field Trips to local shops or Live Workshops at HolyPlaces – these are fantastic opportunities to get your hands dirty and connect with other makers.

Get Involved

Want to deepen your connection to the Rogue Carpenter movement? There are plenty of ways to jump in:

• Find a Carpenter Angel: Connect with experienced woodworkers in your area for mentorship and guidance.
• Take a Wood Shop Class: Sharpen your skills and meet fellow enthusiasts.
• List a Custom Commission: Showcase your talents and build your portfolio.
• Claim a Creator Profile: Share your projects and connect with the community.

This isn't just about watching videos; it's about building something yourself.