Over half of all homes in India are constructed of mud, and this is for economy as well as preference. Even in cities people are beginning to think that their grandparents had it right. Mud houses have several advantages over modern materials, and here are 7 reasons why they better: 1. Longevity Mud brick can … Read more
Jim Gagnepain and his wife, Stephanie, built their retirement home in eastern El Paso County, Colorado. Jim, who has a background in electrical engineering, acted as the general contractor, and he and Stephanie did a lot of the work. The result is an almost completely self-sufficient bermed earth home. Jim and Stephanie had long been … Read more
Emma lives in the wild woods of Wales, where she is close to nature , with no running water, electricity, or internet. For Emma, this way of life is all about building a closer relationship to nature while also creating a lifestyle where she is free of the pressures of the modern world. Her simple … Read more
This is a fun, ecological retreat house surrounded by trees in the United Kingdom. Much of the material used was recycled or gathered locally. You can find out more about Ravendere Retreats at ravendere.co.uk You can watch the video at www.youtube.com
Avid blog reader Phil Dodd wrote, “Are you aware that in mid-Wales, UK, a sustainable-living practitioner is now coming to the end of his second earthbag build on his land? Kris Harbour has now nearly finished building a large workshop with earthbag walls, and a turfed timber roof. One of the notable features of the … Read more
Besides some of the obvious choices for ecological flooring, such as adobe or flagstone, there are a number of commercial products that you might consider. Hardwood is great for floors, but it is often not sustainably harvested. Materials like bamboo, renewable fibers, linoleum and others may be sustainably sourced, recyclable, or renewable. Bamboo flooring is … Read more