Ash Robinson

"Head, heart and hands, I am conductive of powerful creative energy that allows me to generate innovative solutions, especially in building and craft. Practical skills, love of problem-solving and training in architecture, combined with the experience of living off-grid in self-built homes, enable me to work towards an inspiring vision of the future that involves living with the land and in flow with nature."

Ash Robinson is an Architectural Design and Builder from the South West and based in Bristol UK. Cultivating an approach to design that is both technical and organic, with a dedication to the use of traditional and low-carbon biomaterials. Experience working in the construction industry and various alternative communities has provided extensive knowledge of the down-to-earth practical reality of realising a vision and the processes involved. His interests, knowledge and experience are wide-ranging but cohesive, from the back-to-basics traditional, low-tech approach, to the highly technical and complex.

  • Qualifications

    Recently graduating from a RIBA part 1 and CIBSE accredited 4-year degree titled, Architecture and Environmental Engineering at UWE Bristol.

    This degree encouraged the symbiotic relationship between the conceptual and creative process of architectural design and the considered and calculated engineering needed to practically realise the vision. Students were taught to consider the environmental aspects of the built form at an early stage, integrating passive design strategies, building services and renewable technologies to create beautiful and practical carbon-zero buildings.

  • Professional Experience

    During university and since graduating Ash has been working within the Community-led housing sector in Bristol.

    Previously Employed as a Director of tiny House Community Bristol, a CIC creating regenerative settlements with the heart of Bristol, for 2.5 years, currently working within the design circle of the organisation and facilitating workshops.

    Several small self-managed commissions have also been completed over the last few years, including tiny houses, extensions, gardens, temporary structures, volunteer builds, site layouts and planning proposals.

  • Practical Skills

    With a keen interest in self-sufficiency and capability, Ash has cultivated a wide range of practical skills and knowledge.

    A methodical, creative and precise woodworker with around 7 years of experience working with timber, within in the construction industry, and domestic and self-motivated projects. A good understanding of electrical theory, specification, installation and application, especially 24/12v off-grid systems. Experience in general building and landscaping with various materials such as concrete, lime and clay plastering, pointing and stonewalling.

  • Lived Experience

    Brought up within various off-grid, intentional and self-build communities throughout south-west England and Wales, Ash has gained a real understanding of the realities of living in a close relationship with nature, and through this understanding a deep and rich connection to the cycles and rhythms of the natural world.