This is my second plan that’s designed specifically for building roundhouses in stages. As I stated in a previous blog post, I think building roundhouses like this is the simplest, easiest way to build an earthbag home: build in stages, one roundhouse at a time so you can pay with cash and move in right … Read more
Specifications: 448 sq. ft. interior, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 19′ x 31′ Description: This plan is designed to be compact and efficient. Most houses this size do not have as many features — washer/dryer, wood stove, and modern kitchen and bath. There are even two closets. An archway separates the bedroom from the main … Read more
A growing number of people are disillusioned with conventional housing made of 2x4s and sheetrock (the way most homes in North America are built). These homes are filled with materials such as particleboard, plywood, plastic, linoleum, and synthetic carpet and paint that contain known carcinogens and allergens. These man-made materials offgas toxic chemicals such as … Read more
Here’s a short list of designers who have inspired my thinking. Christopher Alexander – architect and author of some of the most significant books on architecture: The Timeless Way of Building and A Pattern Language Laurie Baker – British architect who worked in India on affordable, sustainable housing Hassan Fathy – Egyptian architect and author … Read more
I was lounging in one of my favorite restaurants the other day and just realized all the wood there is recycled. Maybe that’s why the ambience is so nice. The cooling system is another plus. Sprinklers water the roof and then the water trickles off into a fish pond in the center. In addition to … Read more
I really love the Internet. I just learned of another cool way to share ideas called Pinterest. It’s an “online pinboard” to “collect the things you love.” I stumbled onto Christina Atkins’ site and was happily surprised to see not only some of my projects, but also other interesting pics. I loved the whole collection. … Read more