Shelly Miller is a professor of mechanical engineering at the University of Colorado Boulder. Much of her work has focused on how to control the transmission of airborne infectious diseases indoors. According to Shelly, “Once the virus escapes into the air inside a building, you have two options: bring in fresh air from outside or … Read more
I’ve been noticing more uniquely natural and sustainable Airbnb listings lately. Exposing more people to the charms and advantages of natural and sustainable homes is good for business, education, and the planet. If any of you readers have property that would be suitable to offer up as an Airbnb rental, I encourage you to explore … Read more
Greg Parham and his company Rocky Mountain Tiny Houses has built 80 custom tiny homes for customers across the country. He and his wife live off-grid and onsite at the company in Durango,Colorado. They customized everything to their particular needs, from a mechanical elevator bed to a tabletop that slides (with wax) into multiple positions. … Read more
Building a better normal has been on the minds of many people who are trying to survive the widespread disruption. But how do we really build a more resilient future? We have been equating growth with success, but can we thrive while not expanding the economy? The idea of biomimetic design—using nature as a teacher—can … Read more
It was in 1967 that the first Trombe wall was implemented in France. The system, named after engineer Felix Trombe, combines glass and a dark, heat-absorbing material to conduct heat slowly into the house. The standard Trombe wall places glass approximately 1 to 2 inches from a 4 to 16 inch thick dark masonry wall, … Read more
When Cyclone Amphan tore through Bengal, India, Linus Kendall and Rupsa Nath’s house, built with mud, thatch and bamboo sustained minimal damage. Other houses in the vicinity suffered broken window panes or missing tin sheds, but their unique home stood tall. Fondly christened ‘Kancha-Paka’ (Raw and Ripe), the Swedish-Bengali couple’s home has some conventional elements, … Read more