
There are many different uses for bamboo mat such as wall treatments, ceilings, floor mats, placemats, furniture and cabinet door panels. The natural textures and hues add a special touch to a home. Millions of low cost homes in the tropics use bamboo mat as the main covering over lightweight wall framing. The image above shows just a few available designs. Check your local suppliers or order online.
home design
Home Design Sample Boards
Before you build your dream home it’s good to start collecting images and samples to help visualize and coordinate the final design. Not only is this a lot of fun, it can greatly improve the results and help you communicate your ideas to workers and family members. The basic idea is closely related to making scale models. Hands-on, tactile activities like this can open your mind to lots of new possibilities.
Earth Lodges in the Tropics?

Question from a reader:
“I want to build one of your earthbag Earth Lodges in the tropics. What do you think?”
Strawmark Strawbale Homes and Buildings

Strawmark built the home in yesterday’s blog post. Be sure to see their stunning gallery.
“Straw houses the way of the future?
With the aftermath of devastation in Christchurch, the focus is now more than ever on safe, affordable, ‘Earthquake’ strong housing.
We are happy to say all our homes within the quake-ravaged area have stood the test, and passed with flying colors, with no damage reported.
The Last Straw Cottage

Welcome to the Last Straw Cottage, Nelson’s only uniquely built straw cottage
accommodation. Situated on a 16 acre farmlet, in a beautiful scenic valley grazing sheep and horses. Close to Nelson City and right in the heart of Nelson’s wine region (15 mins from Nelson Airport).
