21–23 June 2026 | Ermitaj Malin, Romania
Following the Natural Building Course with Németh János (18–20 June), Ermitaj Malin hosts a three-day specialised training dedicated to hemp-based construction with Ovanes Chodzakar.
Participants who wish to deepen their understanding of natural materials are encouraged to attend both courses. Together, they provide a broader and more coherent approach to regenerative building practices.
This course focuses primarily on hempcrete (hemp-lime construction), while also exploring hemp cultivation, technical itineraries, legal aspects in Romania, and potential applications and markets.
The training combines theory and hands-on practice.
What the Course Covers
- Hempcrete fundamentals
- Mix design and material proportions
- Thermal and hygroscopic performance
- Wall insulation systems
- Formwork techniques and casting
- Compatibility between hemp-lime and other natural materials
- Durability and long-term performance
Beyond construction techniques, the course also addresses:
- Introduction to hemp cultivation
- Technical itineraries for fibre and shiv production
- Legal framework for hemp cultivation in Romania
- Processing and supply chains
- Market opportunities and potential applications
Participants will gain both practical construction skills and a broader understanding of hemp as a regenerative material system.
Practical Work
Hands-on sessions will include:
- Preparation and mixing of hempcrete
- Formwork assembly
- Casting and compaction techniques
- Discussion of real-life implementation scenarios
Learning takes place within the living context of Ermitaj Malin, grounded in regenerative design principles.
The Trainer
Ovanes Chodzakar
Ovanes Chodzakar is a practitioner specialised in hemp-based natural construction and the founder of “Câneparul Ovanes,” a small-scale hemp production initiative in Suceava County, Romania.
After several years working abroad, he returned to Romania and shifted from healthcare to entrepreneurship, focusing on hemp cultivation and processing. He currently manages industrial hemp production, working with seeds, oil, and hemp shiv used in construction.
His experience bridges agriculture and building practice, offering participants a grounded understanding of hemp as both a regenerative crop and a construction material. He shares practical insights into cultivation, legal aspects in Romania, processing challenges, and real-world implementation of hemp-lime systems.
Who This Course Is For
This course is open to:
People interested in natural building and hemp construction
Architects, builders, and designers exploring bio-based materials
Farmers or landowners curious about hemp cultivation
Permaculture practitioners and eco-builders
Participants should be comfortable with practical outdoor work.
The course will be confirmed once the minimum number of participants (12) is reached.
About Ermitaj Malin
Ermitaj Malin is an off-grid learning space rooted in permaculture, eco-building, and regenerative living.
The 8-hectare land in the foothills of the Carpathians functions as a living classroom where forest, orchard, pasture, and experimental infrastructures coexist.
Participants are encouraged to familiarise themselves with the general conditions and internal guidelines before arrival.
Practical Details and Pricing
The course follows an income-based pricing system.
Early Bird applies for registrations before 1 May 2026.
Income Categories and Fees
| Monthly Household Income | Standard Fee | Early Bird |
|---|---|---|
| 1st category | 1200 RON | 1080 RON |
| 2nd category | 1400 RON | 1260 RON |
| 3rd category | 1600 RON | 1440 RON |
| 4th category | 1800 RON | 1620 RON |
The fee includes:
Course organisation
Accommodation (camping area access)
Meals from the first morning to lunch on the final day
Trainer and kitchen team work
Water, tea, coffee, and snacks are available during breaks.
Registration
Registration is done through the form available here.
Participants are invited to read carefully the General Conditions and Internal Guidelines before registering.
