Introduction: Architecture as a Living Relationship with Nature
The Kogi, an indigenous people from the Sierra Nevada de Santa Marta in Colombia, view architecture not merely as construction, but as a living relationship between humans, thought, and the Earth. For them, every building is a reflection of our inner state and a contribution to the balance of life. A house is not just a shelter—it is a space for thinking, for being in harmony with others, and for supporting the greater order of the world.
The Kogi ask: “What kind of house allows us to think clearly?”
They believe that the materials we use, the place we build on, and the intentions we carry during the building process all influence the quality of life within and around the structure. Architecture is therefore a spiritual and ecological act—one that can heal or harm, depending on how we relate to it.
What You Can Expect in the Workshop
Together, we will explore the Kogi understanding of architecture as a dialogue with the Earth. We dive into questions like:
- How do the Kogi choose where and how to build? What signs do they observe in the land?
- What role do natural materials play in shaping the energy and purpose of a space?
- How are buildings spiritually “activated” to serve their function?
- What is the connection between architecture and the relationships of the people who live within it?
- How does a building influence the clarity of thought and the harmony between people?
- What can the modern world learn from this approach to create truly sustainable and life-affirming spaces?
Experience Wisdom and Embodied Practices
This workshop combines deep dialogue with experiential learning:
- Hear directly from Kogi elders as they share their ancestral knowledge on building, nature, and balance.
- Join an excursion to local material sites to reflect on their spiritual and ecological significance.
- Participate in rituals for harmonizing the use of natural resources and balancing the impact of construction.
- Work in small groups with modern architects and sustainability practitioners to bridge traditional wisdom with contemporary challenges.
Your Goals in the Workshop
- A new perspective on building: See architecture as a living expression of values, relationships, and natural balance.
- Inspiration for regenerative design: Learn how intention, material choice, and energetic awareness can elevate your design practice.
- Reconnection to place: Discover how to build in alignment with the land, supporting both human well-being and ecological health.
Speakers and Contributors
• Kogi Elders sharing indigenous knowledge and practices
• Lucas Buchholz and Anna Reisch from the Timeless Wisdom Academy share insights into indigenous collaboration
• STERLING PRESSER Architects + Engineers bridging indigenous and contemporary design
• Bauhaus Earth (Diana Barrera-Salazar and Dr. Gediminas Lesutis) perspectives on regenerative architecture
If you have problems registering and signing up for this workshop, please send an e-mail with your name and full postal address to: seminare@ak-berlin.de, they will be happy to take care of the registration for you.
