Instituto de Tecnologia Intuitiva e Bioarquitetura
The Bio-Architecture and Intuitive Technology School (TIBÁ) is a is an eco-centre located in the coastal jungle of Brazil (Mata Atlântica), dedicated to demonstrating and teaching sustainable development and 'barefoot' construction techniques. It was founded in 1987 by Rose and Johan Van Lengen, author of the grassroots construction manual 'The Barefoot Architect'. This book has gained popularity worldwide through it's advocation and detailed instruction on appropriate technology and natural building techniques for builders, architects and students. The bio-architecture school was established to provide a place in which students can share and learn these techniques hands-on.
The name TIBÁ comes from the Tupi language (Brazilian Amazonian tribe) meaning "A place where many people meet".
Programmes
Various programmes are held year round in housing, sanitation, communication and education.
Specialist workshops held throughout the year include:
- Bio-Architecture Techniques (Earth Construction, Bamboo Construction, Ferro-concrete, Composting toilets (the "Bason"), Greywater reuse/Biological Filters, Green Roofs)
- Earth Construction Techniques (Adobe, Rammed earth, Wattle and Daub, Cob, Super Adobe, Natural Paints/Pigments, Natural Finishes/Plasters (Earth and Cal, Interior and Exterior)
- Agroforestry, as taught by Ernst Gotsch (a type of forest gardening technique)
- Introduction to Permaculture
See also
- Appropriate Technology
- Natural Building
- Ecological Sanitation
- Green Building
- Sustainable Architecture
- Sustainable Agriculture
- Forest Gardening
- Forest Farming
- Vernacular Architecture