The Art of Natural Building: Design, Construction, Resources

Mother Earth News Wiser Living

by Joseph F. Kennedy (Editor), Michael G. Smith (Editor), Catherine Wanek (Editor)

The Art of Natural Building is the encyclopedia of 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. Includes examples of diverse natural dwellings, from a Hybrid Hobbit House to a thatched studio and a cob office.

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 others.

Genres: Construction, Nonfiction, Architecture, Education, Sustainability

288 pages, Paperback

First published August 1, 2001

Reviews

[James · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is the best book I've read recently on the rapidly evolving natural building scene. It's not just about the high end boutique eco-house crowd, it's also about developing world groups finding real, low cost and impact housing for their local needs. Some designs have been earthquake tested on a shake table or in real life, as well as hurricane resistant, and building codes are being updated in the developed world. More non-US/UK coverage than before if I remember the 1st edition correctly.

There are over 60 chapters, each with extensive links and bibliography. While you probably can't build a house from this book alone, with the other information you probably can and this book points out many methods to investigate.

I read the soft cover version, I don't have an e-thingy, but this might be a good e-book for link and reference purposes.

[Irene · Rating 5 out of 5]

What a wonderful resource for learning about building with natural materials. The first section, until chapter 11, mostly tries to talk you into doing this. It felt a bit unnecessary; if I wasn't interested, I wouldn't be reading this book! The last section is all about natural buildings around the world and how they're used in different communities, so if you're only interested in the instructional section, that bit is in the middle.

This book is very thorough, and if you're thinking about building a little house for yourself but you're not sure what materials may be best suited for your area and climate, or if you're unsure about what you prefer aesthetically, this is a perfect book to figure it out. I was mostly interested in cob building, limewash and green roofs, but I ended up learning a tone about building with straw bales, and I have a lot to think about! There are tons of photos and illustrations as examples and instructional graphics, as well as a wealth of other resources, both websites and other books. If you dream about building your own house, I strongly recommend it!

[Nathan Titus · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great introduction to natural building. Covers a wide range of topics, every for of natural building I'm aware of. As an introduction it can't go into any of them in detail but if that's what you want to do the book lists resources for further study at the end of every chapter. Not really for pleasure reading, and there was a slight anti technology theme undercurrent that I didn't much care for but for what it was--an introduction to natural building--quite good.

[Wendy Keel · Rating 4 out of 5]

*I received this book from Edelweiss for the purpose of an honest review*
Review is cross-posted to www.MyBookAddictionandMore.com

I found the Art of Natural Building to informative and interesting. I will say for me I think the book will be better enjoyed in print format vs ebook. I can see this book being added to many reference shelves for use at later dates. If you are interested in the use of natural materials I'd recommend you pick up the Art of Natural Building.

[Aleksandar · Rating 5 out of 5]

Good overview of natural building techniques with lots of practical tips and a great list of resources to look up further. You will have a pretty good idea of what each technique looks like and this should give you a clearer idea of what will work in your specific project and what you need to learn about further.

[Stephen · Rating 4 out of 5]

A great intro to cob and straw bale housing. Plenty also on alternative mortar walls, like cord wood and recyled bottles and cans. A few great essays on the importance of building with natural materials and locally found materials. Looks like I'm going to building my own nest someday.

[Kathleen]

I may not be able to have my entire next house be built this way but I would love to have an outbuilding, an office or guest cottage built this way.

[Jessie · Rating 4 out of 5]

The point of view is rather hippy and tree hugger-ish, but it has a lot of good information and ideas.

[Stacey Delgado · Rating 4 out of 5]

Great introduction to natural building through short informative articles. I definately recommend!

[Kent · Rating 3 out of 5]

lots of text and information. mostly applies to houses in the south west. they suggest you dance and sing about your miniature house models

[Challis · Rating 3 out of 5]

great pics and a variety of authors and topics.