The Passive Solar Potential of Skylights

Research shows that, even in cloudy areas, a large chunk of our heating needs could be met with a few well-positioned (and well-managed) skylights. “I’ve been interested in passive solar heating for quite a number of years, but we live in a cloudy climate. And there has been a lot of skepticism about how well … Read more

Bamboo Housing Around the World

Earl Forlales’ grandparents, like generations of Filipinos, lived in a “Bahay Kubo” — a traditional, boxy, single-story bamboo hut on stilts. “Filipinos have been using bamboo even before colonial times, for thousands of years,” he says. Realizing the Bahay Kubo could be adapted to create a contemporary home, Forlales began designing his own bamboo houses … Read more

Owl Mountain – Earth Sheltered Log Framed House in Saskatchewan

Myk Brazier here – These are a few pics of the house we’ve been working on. I used Mike Oehler’s book as well as PAHS by John Hait (and a bunch of other stuff). But it’s basically what you’re calling WOFATI. We mixed and poured our own concrete foundation. This house is being built by … Read more

An Old Stone Schoolhouse in Wales Converted to a Home

This former school house located in Wye Valley, one of Wales’ most stunning, landmark locations, is a great lesson in how to transform a period property from a practical former life into a welcoming and wonderful home. As well as the breathtaking scenery, the village is the site of one of the UK’s most iconic … Read more