I Love Cob

Michael Blaha kindly pointed out the existence of his crafty cross between a website and a blog called www.ilovecob.com. This blog-style site has assembled lots of images of natural building projects, commentary about them, links to related sites, and even video via YouTube that tours a lovely cob creation. Browsing Michael's site is both an education and a pleasure!

Lichenology

I recently got the following email from a fellow named Zane:

"I am an owner-builder, in the process of building a small earth home (light clay with wood chip infill, earth plaster) in British Columbia. I am documenting the process and my thoughts about sustainability, building, policy, and life on my blog at http://lichenology.blogspot.com. I thought you might be interested in checking it out or adding a link."

I did check it out and was struck by the thoughtful demeaner with which he writes and the whole presentation, including lots of lovely photos. He also has a bunch of like-minded links to other blogs and websites. I recommend that you check it out as well.

7 Ways to Build Green

I recently was sent an article written by Roselind Hejl of Austin, Texas, enumerating seven ways to build green. She says "I think people need to feel that green building is not just for "tree huggers", and does not require an engineering degree. It is something that everyone can do to some extent. I have found in my real estate business that some of my clients have no idea what green building means, or of basic passive solar orientation, for example. When people begin to appreciate that green building results in long term savings and a healthier house, they will want these choices built into their homes. I want to convey a sense of the many aspects of green building, and I am learning more about it myself."

Her seven ways are:

1. Build a passive solar design.
2. Ventilate attic spaces.
3. Optimize your heat and AC systems.
4. Reduce water needs.
5. Use renewable or recycled materials.
6. Safeguard your site.
7. Use safe materials.

Under each of these categories her article outlines specific suggestions. You can read about these specifics here at www.greenhomebuilding.com