The tiny community of Coslor Cove in northern Navajo County is just east of the tiny town of Snowflake in Arizona – about a three hour drive to the nearest big city of Phoenix. This 1,300-acre commune wants to remain off the grid, with eventually all 200 of its residents participating in garden-farming toward its goal … Read more
I recently discovered the folks who run tinyshinyhome.com and who have produced a number of video programs. I was particularly impressed with this video about building with hyperadobe that they call “The ULTIMATE GUIDE to Hyperadobe Earthbags: Pros, Cons, & Cost Savings” They say, “After 4 years of experimenting, here’s everything we know about hyperadobe … Read more
Africa Lao had spent her career designing homes from an office in Barcelona, so when she moved to the country to get closer to nature, she was inspired to transform a crumbling 18th century stone barn into a small, minimal dream home. Located in the middle of protected forest, the location was an urban refugee’s … Read more
Running from July 1–4th permies.com is offering a Permaculture Adventure Bundle to help with your sustainable journey. For $35 you can get over $600 worth of merchandise, including Owen Geiger’s Roundhouse Studio Plan (and his Earthbag Building Guide ebook), which is worth $150 in its own right. This comprehensive package of e-books, movies, plans, presentations, … Read more
When Dan Price returned to his home state of Oregon in 1990 he was determined to avoid mortgages or rent (he and his family had just finished care taking a mansion with a heating bill of $500/month). He found an unused meadow in Joseph, Oregon, and began renting it from his neighbors for $100/year (in … Read more
Stuart Absalom and Philip Mawer’s home in Australia has wonderful views in every direction. The living area faces north, while the two bedrooms and bathrooms face south. The house follows the principles of passive solar in that region, including its northerly aspect, thermal mass through masonry walls, and windows thoughtfully placed for ventilation and cooling. … Read more