Ruben

Travel information

I am currently

Activities i am interested in:

Construction and woodworking, especially with natural/ecological materials or traditional buildings

Description

Hi, I am Ruben, 28 years old from Utrecht in the Netherlands. Here I work as an architect for a small firm specialized in historical buildings. I really love this job as it combines my interests for history and architecture. However that's not all of my passions so this summer I want to get away from the screen and out of my apartment for a workaway experience in the countryside/nature.

I am available for two-three weeks from the 27th of July until the 17th of August. I am looking for one, or a combination, of the following two things:
1: A place where I can help with building renovations/construction projects. My interest goes especially to traditional and ecological building techniques. Although through my work and studies I know a lot about (traditional) building techniques I have not much experience in the practical work myself. I hope to develop some practical skills in carpentry or related areas. I have started some small woodworking projects at home, for example making a little bench right now, but there's only limited things you can do in a rental apartment.
2: Getting close to nature, experiencing life in the countryside, for example on a farm. I have always lived in cities or suburbs but now my office is on a farm (which is amazing!). During my lunch breaks I've gotten into contact with sheep, chickens and fresh apple juice and really enjoyed that. This made me want to further explore an outdoor lifestyle. So I would also love to learn about farm work with animals or gardening. Recently I started to visit a organic garden where I harvest my own vegetables every week, I already a lot from that.

I am looking for a place in central Europe so I don't have to fly but can get there by train/bus. This can be in one of the countries listed above but also others. Southern Europe is too warm in summer.

Languages spoken

English: Fluent
Dutch: Fluent

Skills and knowledge I'd like to share or learn

I'm interested in:  

Gardening

Life at a Farmstay

Eco Projects

Animal Care

---

Some knowledge of:  

DIY and building projects

General Maintenance

More details about your skills

I know about building techniques and construction principles because of studying and working in architecture. I can make drawings. I am specialized in historical buildings.
I can work independent or in a team and I am eager to learn new things.
My work has also helped me to develop a creative and curious mindset, which helps with problem fixing.

Age

29

What else ...

Some more about myself: I love to get into nature to relax and exercise. Especially passionate about sailing, but I also enjoy bike rides, hikes and swims. I am a musician who plays piano and sing and sometimes write songs. I like to explore new places, museums and old buildings, read good books, cook nice food and (of course) spend time with friends and family. I try to live sustainable and am a vegetarian. In my neighborhood I volunteer in the community center, cooking free meals with leftover food from local shops. I am a christian and my church community is important for me. In my hometown I have several international friends and I also enjoy meeting new people from different cultures and backgrounds when travelling. Last year I solo traveled through Scandinavia for three weeks, so I can be independent. But a sense of community is also something I am looking for in a workaway.

Some more information

• 

  Smoker

• 

  Driver's licence

• 

  Allergies

• 

  Special dietary requirements
  Vegetarian