The Summer School enables participants to develop their knowledge of traditional architecture, design, building and repair techniques and how these can be applied in the 21st century. The three week programme is delivered at The King’s Foundation headquarters at Dumfries House in Ayrshire.
During week one of the programme you will take part in drawing classes, geometry and structure exercises as well as architectural tours and the study of architectural development and history. In week two, you will work together with expert craft teams to learn craft and conservation skills in the fields of timber, thatching, stonemasonry, lime plastering and stained glass. (skills may be subject to change).
The programme ends with a week-long Design Gravity workshop, where you will study the craft of creating vaulted ceilings and stairs with expert tutors from Spain.
Start Date
The course starts on the afternoon of Sunday 13th July 2025.
Location
The King’s Foundation headquarters, Dumfries House, Scotland.
Fees
£4,250
Fully inclusive, including tuition, materials, accommodation, and food. Travel to and from the Summer School is not covered.
Qualifications needed
There are no entry requirements for this course and anyone is welcome to apply.
Ideal candidates
The programme will particularly benefit architects, developers, builders, craftspeople and students who are interested in building crafts and architecture, and how these factors respond to the local identity of historic contexts in a timeless and ecological way.
What should I bring?
All materials are included in the fee, so you only need to pack the essentials to help your stay away from home go smoothly.
What will I achieve?
You will learn skills including
- Stonemasonry
- Carpentry
- Thatching
- Lime plastering
- Stained glass
- Timber framing
- Design and build
- Public consultation
- Technical drawing
What happens if I don’t complete the course?
We highly recommend the three-week Summer School is completed in full. However, if you are unable to attend for the duration or are interested in a particular week’s curriculum, please do get in touch.
Watch students in action on week two of the Foundation Summer School.
How to apply
The King’s Foundation Summer School 2025 will be open for applications in the new year. If you have any queries please email kasia.howard@kings-foundation.org
