After studying decorative paving and engraving, he embarked on a seven-year global trek on foot, exploring over 120 countries. It was the natural building techniques in places like Djenné that fascinated him the most. Upon returning to Germany, he felt a stark contrast in living comfort between European construction—akin to a plastic bodysuit and the natural methods observed in Asia, Africa, and South America, which were more like a second skin. This experience planted a seed of inspiration.

Meanwhile, he collaborated with the renowned artist Joseph Beuys on various art projects. During this period, he discovered the first university dedicated to Clay Architecture, diving deep into the world of clay construction. Through Beuys, he was tasked with constructing a clay pavilion for the “Arts meets Science and Spirituality” global conference in Amsterdam. This project steered his focus towards interior clay finishing materials, recognizing their significant impact. Leveraging his multifaceted background in art, design, and natural materials, he created the first high-end colored clay plaster, naming it Tierrafino. The rest, ladies and gentleman, is history.