Clayworks: the ancient lineage of clay

Many of us feel a connection to clay. We held it in our hands as children and proudly fashioned misshapen pinch pots as a first foray into the world of making unaware that clay comes with a loftier history as the cornerstone of human construction, for centuries connecting us to the earth. Today clay is experiencing a remarkable renaissance, establishing itself as an important part of the sustainable materials palette. This revival owes a great deal to Clayworks, the Cornwall-based company redefining the use of clay in contemporary design.

Clayworks Founder, Adam Weismann. Image credit, Clayworks

Founded by Adam Weismann and Katy Bryce in 2010, the pair first came across clay as a building material while training in cob building using local and found materials in Oregon on the West Coast of America. Adam describes this ‘backwoods apprenticeship’ as an amazing time in their lives, setting them on a journey that led to Cornwall and the restoration of an old Vicarage. Adam says they had no intention of making this their livelihood, but the couple fell in love with clay and what started as an exploration of local materials soon evolved into a fully-fledged mission: to integrate clay into modern construction.

A journey rooted in tradition

Early work focused on removing cement from historic structures and reinstating lime and clay finishes, an approach that resonated with their ethos of sustainability and craftsmanship. This hands-on experience led to the publication of two influential books: Building with Cob and Clay and Lime Finishes. The latter became a turning point, and a scholarship from the Kings Foundation enabled them to travel globally and learn from master plasterers in places including Morocco and the American Southwest. These experiences enriched their understanding of clay's versatility and inspired them to create products that could bring this ancient material into contemporary architectural practice.

Clayworks designer at work. Image credit, Elliot Sheppard for Clayworks

The company's growth has been steady with the last six years seeing a huge growth of interest in clay use. Their team now includes nearly 30 members, reflecting their expanding global reach. From bespoke residential projects to large-scale commercial developments, Clayworks is proving that clay can meet the demands of modern construction without compromising its integrity. Gone are the days of cold-calling and conducting CPD (Continuing Professional Development) sessions to an uneducated audience. Adam is finding designers have now moved beyond the obvious aesthetic appeal of clay to reach an understanding of the environmental benefits of a material that is non-toxic, breathable, and capable of regulating indoor humidity, contributing to healthier living spaces - qualities that align with the growing emphasis on wellness in architecture.

COS’ first flagship store at Antara Fashion Hall in Polanco, Mexico City. Image Credit, COS

Architects are approaching Clayworks in increasing numbers with the collaborative process kicking off with reference images followed by a period of experimentation and sampling to find the right texture and colour by using natural pigments like yellow ochre and burnt sienna. Growth in demand internationally has led Clayworks to explore ways to incorporate materials local to the site into these projects. Cornish pre-mixed clay is sent dry where it can be blended to a specific recipe using local materials and applied in-situ. A recent project in Italy saw the integration of local fibres from the place added to the mix. This approach supports regional economies by training local applicators in traditional plastering techniques, creating jobs in regions where knowledge of these plastering techniques has faded, fostering a revival of craftsmanship.

Continued experimentation is at the heart of Clayworks with many young team members graduates of the nearby Falmouth School of Art. The pushing of boundaries has led to the development of new products including their Rammed Earth application that sees the material applied at 7 to 10mm thick to an existing surface, reducing time on site and cost of the traditional construction method but still achieving the desired aesthetic.

Rammed Earth Finishes at CBRE in Glasgow. Image Credit, Alex Treadway for Clayworks

Shifting perceptions

The architectural landscape has changed dramatically since Clayworks' inception. In those early days, sustainability was often dismissed as niche —something associated more with left field ideals than serious mainstream practice. Early clay adopters included architects Tuckey Design Studio and Michaelis Boyd who saw the benefits of working with the material. Today, clay is finding itself more central to architectural discourse, driven by both environmental urgency and client demand. Adam describes clay as a ‘trojan horse’ for sustainability, creating a win-win situation for clients with beauty as a driver.

King Fahad Cultural Centre in Riyadh. Image credit, Giò Forma for Clayworks

Adam is drawn to the possibility of introducing clay into places where people need sanctuary. He likes the idea of softening schools, hospitals and waiting rooms, spaces where little thought has been put into the design or the material choice and sees a more considerate alternative in creating a place where you're ‘held’ by the material.

The soul of clay

As Clayworks continues to grow, they are proving that sustainability can scale without losing its soul. Their trajectory - from restoring cob walls in Cornwall to supplying materials for international projects is a testament to the enduring appeal of clay as both an artisanal medium and an architectural solution.

Adam’s respect for this ancient material and its connection to nature is evident - he references avian architecture as an inspiration, with birds able to collect materials from their surrounding area. He describes how a bird will use its breast to press against the clay wall of its nest, metaphorically imprinting the beat of its heart into the structure. This beautiful observation connects to Adam’s own relationship to the material that has defined his career. Clay has come full circle for Adam, from his first hands on experience to Claymoon, a new artistic direction giving voice to his love of clay. The result is a collection of incredible hand-formed artworks Adam describes as speaking ‘to the ancient lineage of clay, the rhythms of nature and the interconnectedness of all life’. His new film Claymoon – Interbeing Vol 1 captures the golden light of the King Khaled Royal Reserve desert landscape in Saudi Arabia and traces the arc of a day as Adam creates work from the surrounding clay. Adam describes clay as a constant companion for whom he is grateful for discovering.

Together Adam and Katy have been on an incredible journey, one dedicated to telling the story of clay. They have had remarkable success along the way, modestly ensuring that clay has always taken centre stage.

Claymoon – Interbeing Vol 1 teaser. Video credit, Claymoon

Vanessa Norwood is a curator and consultant for the built environment advocating for low-carbon architecture and materials.