Located in Atlanta, the first two tree houses are made from reclaimed materials. The hideaway rustic cabins are connected by a rope bridge. The houses were designed as a secluded spot to escape the hustle and bustle. The first cabin serves as a living room with a cosy seating area, while the other cabin houses … Read more
My last blog post was about a free online version of Making Better Building by Chris Magwood. In reading through some of his introductory comments about foundations, I came across this statement: “In much of North America, foundations have been twinned with conditioned, subgrade living space: the basement. In many markets, having a basement is … Read more
Chris Magwood’s classic book, Making Better Buildings, is now available for free online! This is a comparative guide to sustainable construction for homeowners and contractors. It is also a masterpiece of research and experience folded into an encyclopedic reference book for anyone interested in sustainable approaches to our built environment. Clearly a labor of love … Read more
For over 25 years, The Last Straw journal was dedicated to natural building and ecological design. It was started as a collective effort by straw bale builders Matts Myrhman and Judy Knox in Tuscon, Arizona in 1993. Since then twenty four editors, three publishers, and countless contributors have continued the long conversation about alternative ways … Read more
Take a tour of Acony Bell Tiny Home Community – one of the most beautiful Tiny House villages in the country (and maybe the world)! Learn why so many people are interested in living in a Tiny Home community like this one. Watch the video at www.youtube.com
Overall, straw is a sustainable material that has plenty of redeemable features when it comes to construction, though it may not be suited for everyone or every situation. Take time to look at the risks and rewards (and limitations) while considering a straw bale house. Straw bale houses are considered eco-friendly thanks to the main … Read more