Art of Natural Building Design, Construction, Resources

The search for housing that is healthy, affordable, and environmentally responsible is leading a growing number of people to take a fresh look at 'natural building' -- an approach that uses traditional materials and methods abandoned by the modern construction industry, as well as contemporary ecological building technologies. Gathering together the wisdom of more than fifty leaders in the alternative construction field, The Art of Natural Building is a complete and user-friendly introduction to natural building. Profusely illustrated, the book first discusses the context of natural building in terms of economics, social justice and sustainability. Design and planning issues are reviewed in depth, followed by a comprehensive treatment of natural building materials and techniques. Inspirational case studies from around the world profile pioneer builders and their projects -- including a low-cost adobe vault, an earthbag-papercrete house, and a straw bale retail store -- concluding with a detailed resource section. A groundbreaking and empowering collection, The Art of Natural Building will appeal as much to the novice as to architects, designers, and all those who seek building solutions that are practical, low-cost, beautiful, and environmentally sound. Book jacket.Kennedy, Joseph F. is the author of 'Art of Natural Building Design, Construction, Resources' with ISBN 9780865714335 and ISBN 0865714339.