I posted an idea for Insulated Earthbag Foundations for Yurts at Instructables.com. One reader who left a comment liked the idea, but needed a simpler design so he wouldn’t have to get a building permit. Here’s an idea for a very simple design that might get around building codes. Stack one course of earthbags in … Read more
I see at least two main approaches to building a pit house with earthbags: 1. Mimic Mike Oehler’s greenhouse design using earthbags instead of poles and shoring. 2. Mimic conventional walipini pit greenhouses. That’s what I’ve chosen to do in the following drawing. It’s very similar to typical walipini’s, so follow the directions in the … Read more
Here’s another version of the Hobbit House (five versions altogether) showing an open-air second story deck and rectangular windows. The deck adds another 471 square feet of living space at very little extra cost. This design is perfect for hot climates where breezes make a big difference in comfort. The deck can be accessed by … Read more
There are lots of uses for recycled bricks such as floors, patios, garden paths, sidewalks, planters, benches, fireplaces, driveways, walls behind wood stoves and so on. Not only are reclaimed bricks extremely beautiful and practical, they’re also one of the most green building products (recycled, all natural, non-toxic, durable, DIY friendly, locally available…). The photos … Read more
The Finca Luna Nueva Lodge in Costa Rica is a sustainable rainforest eco-hotel together with a certified organic biodynamic farm. They began farming in 1993, planting and harvesting organic ginger and turmeric. They just finished a workshop building an earthbag roundhouse, and plan to do at least one more. You can find out more about … Read more
This is our LAST EARTHBAG HOME TOUR of the year Nov. 5 at 9:30-11:00am, 12711 Ventris Rd., Garfield, Arkansas! Come see our earthbag home, cordwood chicken house, learn tips on how to live a more sustainable life in these tough times! Topics: filling bags, materials, adobe walls, dehydrating foods, homemade toothpaste & deodorant, mosaics, permits, … Read more