In an age where technology is king, why do we still use our hands to make our life supporting products?

Photo by Sean Michael.

Set in an era dominated by advancements technology, it might seem odd, even backward, that Artecology ecoengineering would choose to distinguish itself through its unwavering commitment to craftsmanship. Yet here we are, handcrafting every single one of our products. For us this is a choice deeply rooted in sustainability, connectivity and efficiency.

Craftsmanship preserves traditional skills, ensuring the transfer of invaluable knowledge is possible across generations, whilst fostering a community deeply connected to ‘place’ and the environment. Our “skills transfer promise” not only empowers individuals but also enhances the resilience of the communities we work with through the hands-on acquisition of knowledge, skills and pertinent stories.

Beyond tradition, Artecology's crafting techniques offer a unique advantage in ecoengineering design. Handcrafting enables the creation of intricate, bioreceptive structures complete with shaped overhangs and multi-level layers, mirroring natural structural complexity and heterogeneity. We believe such nuanced intricacy is impossible to achieve through moulds or 3D printers alone. Handcrafted structures also excel in durability. Artecology's sustainable materials and craftsmanship ensure that our creations can withstand time and the forces of nature.

One might assume that handcrafting these intricate structures would be a slow and costly process. However, this is far from the truth, thanks to our innovative approaches to materials and making. We utilise a very fast-setting, reduced-carbon, natural cement-based concrete, this material not only reduces the environmental footprint of our projects but also accelerates the production process….we have to work fast! The combination of skilled craftsmanship and this simple natural concrete enables us to deliver high-quality, eco-friendly solutions in a cost-effective and timely manner, debunking the misconception that handmade means slow and expensive.

At Artecology, for a whole host of reasons, we endeavour to operate outside the conventional business paradigm. Rather than pursuing profit-driven models, we prioritise goals relating to sustainability, regenerative action, community resilience, and ecological harmony. Our approach aligns with a vision where success encompasses not only financial stability but also the wellbeing of the ecosystems and communities in which we work. Contributing positively to society in the face of enormous environmental challenges is a key driver.

Artecology's unique pathway reflects a commitment to creating lasting value for both the environment and society, with the aim of fostering a more resilient, regenerative and sustainable world.