Massachusetts architect Malcolm “Mac” Wells said, “We are paving and roofing this country to death.” As the environmental movement was gaining steam in the United States, he swore off contemporary design in favor of energy-efficient subterranean dwellings. It is estimated that as many as 2,000 Wells-inspired “earth-sheltered” homes, or earth homes, were constructed in the … Read more
Under the guidance of the German master-builder Jörg Stamm, folks at Bamboo U, a build and design course in Bali, have created a bamboo yurt which can fold like an umbrella and be deployed in an instant. The yurt’s frame is made from bamboo of the Phyllostachys species, referred to in Bali as Bambu Jajang. … Read more
I watched a documentary video that was released for free at www.youtube.com on Earth Day. It is titled Planet of the Humans and is a sobering look at the ecological costs of industries that are touted as “clean energy.” The program was executive produced by Michael Moore. This feature length film (1 hr. 40 min.) … Read more
Homemade clay paint is a great alternative to acrylic or latex paints. It is suitable for existing walls in conventional houses or over plaster in natural homes. It is a non-toxic, sustainable and healthy option for families. It is water soluble when it dries making it unsuitable for wet conditions, unless sealed with linseed oil … Read more
A Lord of the Rings inspired holiday let is up for sale. This hobbit hole shaped home, part of multi-award winning business, was completed in 2018. While it may look like something from the Shire, the underground building – called Pod Hollow – is part of the West Stow Pods glamping site, near Bury St … Read more
Rex Hohlbein and his daughter, Jenn LaFrenier, are both architects in the Seattle area. In this TEDx video they present a novel approach to reducing homelessness. They suggest that we should “reimagine our personal space by inviting homeless residents to move into beautifully designed, off-grid, homes built in residential backyards.” Called “The Block Project” these … Read more