As we reported the other day, Brian Waite’s straw bale vault kit in England is an excellent option. However, many owner-builders might prefer to build their own vaulted home from scratch using locally sourced, low cost materials so as to make any size and shape they want.
DIY
Earthbag homes–easiest and cheapest green build
“Earthbag construction is a type of rammed earth construction where durable bags, usually polypropylene or burlap, are filled with local earth or other materials, laid in courses and tamped down into place to form walls. The greatest advantage is that it is one of the cheapest and easiest ways to construct a green home which with some hard work can be done by the homeowner.
Low Cost, Self-Sufficient Homestead Channel
Come take a tour of our new homestead on YouTube, where we are building a recycled wood house and forest garden — all for just a few thousand dollars.
Brian Waite’s Straw Bale Vault
“I love your fascinating website so I thought you might find my efforts, to get a more sustainable [insulated home] into mainstream acceptance here in the UK, of interest.
Backyard Bioshelter
Take a tour of this low cost year-round passive solar bioshelter in Massachusetts that has raised beds, aquaculture, hydroponics and worm bed.
Floating Gardens
“Bangladesh faces severe problems as a consequence of storms, cyclones and floods. The ancient practice of floating gardens – beds of straw and water hyacinths on which crops are grown – is making a comeback in the face of increased floods.”