While I spend most of my time reading and researching affordable housing, I also have a lot of fun searching online for exotic, affordable eco-friendly resorts. It’s sort of a hobby. For the most part I’m just ‘window shopping’ for natural building ideas.
natural materials
Kilwa Beach Lodge Update
We’ve covered Kilwa Beach Lodge once before, but they’ve added some new buildings and I thought readers might like to see what they’re up to.
New Space Age Material Made From… Carrots?
“Carbon fiber has long been considered one of those space age materials often reserved for high-end sports cars, the space shuttle and other products out of reach for the average consumer.
Phu Chaisai Mountain Resort & Spa
“The crisp green leaves soaked with dew glisten as day breaks. Open your eyes from the comfort of your bed to watch the sun rise from the horizon. Breathe the unspoiled mountain air from your cottage’s private terrace overlooking scenic mountain and valley views, making you forget your worries and cares. Television sets and electronic alarm clocks are absent from your room so you can rise to the sound of an awakening forest in our Chiang Rai traditional Thai accommodation.
Builders Without Borders – Natural Building in Haiti
“BWB has partnered with Help Hayti for the design of an Internet & Community Center for the rural community of Terre Froide. It will use local materials (stone, bamboo, earth plasters) and feature photovoltaic and rainwater catchment systems. It is seen as a prototype for other rural communities in Haiti.”
Stabilized Caliche Floors
Caliche: calcium carbonate formed in the soils of semiarid regions.
“I sifted the caliche through a chicken wire sieve to get rid of the larger material. This leaves a good size aggregate for a 4-5inch think pour, thicker floor better against moisture too (when the pour is too thin less ,than 3″, the mix will crack more, when setting).