A trademark of the Istrian region of Croatia is the kažun, a traditional stone hut. The kažun is a simple cylindrical structure built entirely of dry stacked stone. They all have a circular ground plan, a conical roof, and a small rectangular door. They vary in size, some are a masterful display of precision, some … Read more
Barns can offer big and bright spaces, with vaulted ceilings, exposed bricks and ancient timbers. Barn conversions also lend themselves easily to creating open-plan interiors. Modern design meets 200-year-old architecture at this delightful barn near Usk, in Monmouthshire. It is a traditional dry-stone building with a pitched terracotta roof. The 5,198sq ft interior has exposed … Read more
This straw bale roundhouse in Benbow, Northern California, provides a comfortable living temperature that adjusts to the summer and winter months. It has a central post and large beams on the ceiling. There is a large kitchen, living and dining room, 2 bedrooms, 1 bathroom and open loft above for storage. There are built-in shelving, … Read more
This custom designed passive solar home in Tulsa, Oklahoma has a sun room, spiral staircase to 2nd floor, wood stove, abundant cabinets, 2 acres with pond, gardens and a tree house. Lots of natural materials were used in the construction and there is a rustic elegance. See tulsaworld for more information.
Located in the heart of the Sierra Gorda, 7 km from the center of Jalpan de Serra, is a cabin made of mud in which are used different methods of Bio-construction. It was painted with aloe vera and lime, has a dry toilet that creates compost for the garden, solar heaters for showers and rainwater … Read more
The use of raw earth to build public and private structures has been practiced for thousands of years, with over 1.7 billion people across the globe living in earthen homes. But its integration in urban infrastructure and planning is something we ought to explore more. Raw earth with other materials left to dry and harden … Read more