Lime Plaster Workshop

Time:

9:00 am - 12:00 pm

Course Format:

Hands-on Workshop

Conducted as part of NUS Graduate Programmes in Architectural Conservation

Cost:

S$1,750 (Inclusive of 8% GST)

Description:

This three-day executive programme is aimed at professionals in the conservation/heritage sector who would like to gain practical experience with lime plaster. Lime plaster is composed of sand, water, and lime. Unlike cement plaster, lime plaster is less brittle and less prone to cracking and sets up to a solid mass which is durable yet relatively flexible. This course is suitable for those with no prior experience.

The course will cover the following:

● A brief history of lime in historic building construction

● Understanding the lime cycle

● The advantages of lime in conservation

● Selecting products and specifications

● The different qualities of natural hydraulic lime vs putty mixes

● Material sourcing and the types of aggregate

● Experimentation with various limewash finishes

● Experimentation with hot-mixed lime mortar

● Hands-on experiences and demonstrations with lime plaster

The practical session of the course will be delivered at the newly established Architectural Conservation Laboratory (ArClab). ArClab is a conserved historic shophouse now serving as a living laboratory under the Department of Architecture, NUS. It focuses on holistic research and training related to building survey processes, in-depth analysis, and critical assessment of building materials and systems to advance in digital conservation technology, material sciences, and building aesthetics.

The course will be conducted by esteemed personnel with long-standing experience studying and understanding traditional building materials and materials. They are Lee Godfrey (SPAB Fellow & York Minster, UK) and Dr Nikhil Joshi (SPAB Scholar & Architectural Conservation Laboratory, Department of Architecture, National University of Singapore).

Participants will be advised to wear suitable clothing and sturdy footwear. PPE (goggles, gloves) and all tools and materials will be provided. Participants are welcome to bring their own goggles and gloves if they wish.