The summer starts, and the opening is another workshop in Flanders with the phenomenal Dirk Mortier, a self-made and pluri-awarded carpenter of international fame!
He collaborates with the Round Table of Architecture, together with which he organizes yearly workshops of traditional carpentry.
This is the second year in which I participate, always as student but this time also as field assistant sent by the Round Table to make sure everything goes smoothly and provide feedback and proposals for future courses.
Why is it important for an architect to follow such workshops?
For many reasons, but let's start with being handy and practical.
If I'd have to design a traditional timber structure I'd have to understand how it works, how it is made, how the members of the structure are assembled and dimensioned, and how the joinery works.
If there's a better way than doing it in person, I haven't heard it yet.
This gave me an in-depth knowledge of traditional carpentry which is both technical and aesthetical, since the two aspects are closely interwoven, especially in vernacular architecture.
If there's a better way than doing it in person, I haven't heard it yet.
This gave me an in-depth knowledge of traditional carpentry which is both technical and aesthetical, since the two aspects are closely interwoven, especially in vernacular architecture.
Another reason is that through this workshop I can practice with many tools of outstanding quality and try them out, learn to use them properly, eventually buying my own ones for my small works at home. Each summer school, each workshop, each drawing session or tutoring is a step forward in the long and winding path of becoming a better traditional architect.
So, how did it work this time?
The goal was to build the basic structure for a sheep barn that Dirk would finish later.
First, some theory to turn on the brain. Scale models, joinery, plans and tools. Can you spot a 300€ chisel in a flea market? Even if it looks like a rusty scrap? This, and much more I have learnt through Dirk's teachings.
Then, at work! All by hand of course.
And this is The Team.
If you are interested in Dirk's workshops you can find them on the feed or the newsletter of the Round Table of Architecture or directly on Dirk's profile!
Posted: 22/06/2026 17:48 — Author(s): Riccardo Buratti