Showing posts with label organic. Show all posts
Showing posts with label organic. Show all posts

Tuesday, June 2, 2009

Organic Architecture, Low Impact Housing or Houses from the Shire


Using naturally found materials in Wales, lots of sweat equity, and a vision of whimsy this house was built for around 12,000 USD and can be used all year round. The reason this shelter works is the following. 
  • Dug into hillside for low visual impact and shelter
  • Stone and mud from diggings used for retaining walls, foundations etc.
  • Frame of oak thinnings (spare wood) from surrounding woodland
  • Reciprocal roof rafters are structurally and aesthaetically fantastic and very easy to do
  • Straw bales in floor, walls and roof for super-insulation and easy building
  • Plastic sheet and mud/turf roof for low impact and ease
  • Lime plaster on walls is breathable and low energy to manufacture (compared to cement)
  • Reclaimed (scrap) wood for floors and fittings

Sustainable, low impact, and affordable housing for those who want to partner with their local surroundings rather than dominate it.
This is a very cool site with plans and ideas on making your own.