The King of this stuff is a guy named
Mike Reynolds.
Think self-sustaining, off-grid, incredible housing anyone can build. Then go read
George Green's interview transcripts, expecially the ones about earth changes, housing and preparations for same, then look at this guys work, and
think again! This is
the thing, IMO.
http://www.earthship.net/
Sundance Channel ran a great documentary on him and his designs a while back. They re-run it occasionally. You can see some
videos on the
concept here. I was so blown away, books on this style of building are what my daughter and her husband are getting for Christmas.
ATTN: Kerry & Bill !! Please look into this guy. Interviews, Data Sharing with G. Green, possibly, etc. See if some synergy happens. He has spent his life at this, and his concepts are the epitome of modern, sustainable, unobtrusive construction
Ok, misc tid bits from the website from here down to whet appetites
__________________________________________________ _______
Mike Reynolds:
Architect since 1969
Resides in Taos, Nm.
35 years of research and development of self-sufficient housing made from recycled materials. Development of Earth friendly and people friendly community living concepts that require little or no mortgage payment and no utility bills.
Earthship Biotecture, based in Taos, NM, USA is a global company offering proven, totally sustainable designs, construction drawings & details, products, educational materials, lectures / presentations, consultation & guidance toward getting people in sustainable housing.
From single family to colony / community / city complexes.
Earthship n. 1. passive solar home made of natural and recycled materials 2. thermal mass construction for temperature stabilization. 3. renewable energy & integrated water systems make the Earthship an off-grid home with little to no utility bills.
Earthship Design Principles:
1)Thermal/Solar Heating & Cooling
2)Solar & Wind Electricity
3)Contained Sewage Treatment
4)Building with Natural & Recycled Materials
5)Water Harvesting
6)Food Production