News and Updates
Non-profit Status
The Ridge is now officially a non-profit, registered in Tennessee. This is a major step toward providing opportunities to educate young and old about innovations in real estate, construction and materials. We strive to make the world a better place through teaching how the intersection of space (land and buildings) and time (that we spend on/in them) is one of the most important concepts for human interaction with each other, the earth’s other inhabitants and Mother earth herself. Now that we are incorporated in Tennessee, the next step is to file for recognition by the IRS as a 501 (c)(3) organization. While The Ridge has it’s roots in Smithville, Tennessee at an amazing event and research center, the mission transcends one piece of land. The Ridge is not just a place, it’s an idea, a philosophy that combines people, planet, and profit. Check back for updates on the IRS filing, mission statement, proposed programs, and what you can do to get involved! Click Here to view our business entity details at Tennessee Secretary of State (you may need to verify you are not a “robot”!)
Upcoming Events
Aircrete Dome Workshop
Summer Aircrete Dome Workshop | August 5-14, 2022
Come join us for this 10 day workshop where you will learn how to build your very own custom dome home! We will be teaching everything from how to create the bricks to putting on the final touches of your dome. CLICK HERE for more information on our upcoming event.
Last Sundays at The Ridge
The last Sunday of each month, a group meets at The Ridge to work, exchange ideas, and have fun. Some will come Saturday and spend the night. Due to the current coronavirus worries, these work days are now conducted at a good social distance, outdoors, working independently on projects. The day’s leader will assign projects for individuals or teams from the same household. Assignments will be made from a distance. Please disinfect all tools and supplies as well as wash hands thoroughly in the provided cleaning area.
Other Workshops
Hempcrete Workshop
Volunteer Workdays | A team of volunteers will work various dates on testing mixes of hempcrete, continue construction on the structure, and prepare the site for the public workshop on TBA.
Past Events
Hempcrete Workshop May 27 – May 29, 2020
ICCRE Con 2019 November 1 – November 3, 2019
Tiny House Wall Build Workshop | July 11 – 12, 2020 – A select group of hemp building enthusiasts will visit The Ridge to learn about hempcrete construction methods, materials, and work hands-on building a tiny house with this innovative material.
Tiny House Stucco / Exterior Finish Workshop | September 26-27, 2020 – A select group of hemp building enthusiasts will visit The Ridge to learn about finishing the exterior of a hempcrete structure and work hands-on completing a tiny house with this innovative material.
Design Grant
Knotted Olive Capital, the developer of The Ridge, is excited to announce a design/build grant to a team of students who submit plans and their vision for an off the grid glamping concept that will attract short term rentals. Because the project proposal must provide a building concept AND business plan, it is recommended that teams include students from construction, materials, and real estate business. The entire project budget for the winning proposal must not exceed $10,000 including site work, construction, and marketing. A lake view site will be provided at The Ridge. The project will be completed by the winning team and the winning team will share the entire net profit from renting the project for 12 months from the date of the announcement of the winner. To apply, follow this link. CLICK HERE