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The search for housing that is
healthy, affordable, and environmentally responsible is leading a growing
number of people to take a fresh look at building techniques long shunned
by the modern construction industry.
Recently, books on specific techniques such as straw-bale construction,
cob or rammed earth have become available, but there has been little
to introduce the reader to the entire field. The Art of Natural Building
fills that void wholly by being a complete and user-friendly introduction
to natural building for non-professionals as well as architects and
designers. From straw bale and cob to recycled concrete and salvaged
materials, this anthology of articles from leaders in the field focuses
on both the practical and the esthetic concerns of ecological building
designs and techniques. Above all, this empowering guide demonstrates
that anyone can design and build a home from natural materials that
is beautiful, low-cost, and environmentally sensible.
Profusely illustrated, The Art of Natural Building is divided
into five sections. The first provides an overview of the natural building
movement from the various perspectives of sustainability, lifestyle,
and health. The second section looks at planning and design, followed
by a section that focuses on specific techniques and the vast variety
of materials used in natural building. Next, examples of diverse natural
dwellings are shared – from a Hybrid Hobbit House to a thatched studio
and a cob office. Finally, complementary systems, such as solar appliances,
composting toilets, and alternative power systems are covered. Packed
with additional resources and a bibliography, this is the encyclopedia
of natural building.
Reviews
“…(A) beautifully thought-out and executed book, written and edited
by a veritable Who’s Who of the natural building community… a trustworthy
symposium of natural building’s most admired and experienced practitioners
offering years of collective experience and wisdom.” “Destined to become a classic.” “Highly recommended! Should be required reading for all students
and builders – and everyone who wants a safe, secure, comfortable, enjoyable
and sustainable home.” About the Editors
All three editors are central practitioners in the natural building
movement. Catherine Wanek is the publisher and editor of The Last
Straw Journal. Joseph
F. Kennedy has expanded the boundaries of ecological architecture
with NASA’s space station habitability module. Michael Smith is the
author of The Cob Cottage (Chelsea Green, 2001), among other
books.
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Purchase The Art of Natural Building 
