The Green Self-build Book: How to Design and Build Your Own Eco-home

by Jon Broome

Build your home the 'green' way to reduce running costs, be more self-sufficient and create a more comfortable home.

Whether you want a turf roof, solar-powered hot water, or a super-insulated house, this book demonstrates that green is the way forward. Written by award-winning architect Jon Broome, The Green Self-Build Book provides an accessible overview of the different methods of sustainable and eco-friendly construction techniques.

Covering the essential elements of design and the self-build process, this practical book includes information on sustainable foundations, floor finishes and insulation. Jon also shares insights on how to build for comfort and health. Inspiring case studies of green building projects using earth, straw, steel and timber are also included.

Packed with attractive colour photos throughout, this is an essential resource for anyone who is planning a self-build project or involved in housing.

Genres: Architecture, Reference

288 pages, Paperback

First published November 1, 2006

Reviews

[Tish · Rating 3 out of 5]

I bought this, thinking it was a "how to," as is stated in the title. Although it covers several alternative theories, from energy to construction materials, using case study homes, it is more an introduction to eco-building theory, rather than an actual how to manual. This would make good reading for those who know nothing yet about eco-building.

[Chris Keefe · Rating 3 out of 5]

In the past month, I've scanned or read 10-20 books on the topics of building, green building, small home design, passive solar homes, etc. Of those, only a few have been worthy enough to list here. Broome's book is one of those.

Though I don't agree with all of the author's opinions, he leaves plenty of room for the formation of one's own. The book is as long on resources as on inspiration, and has more backbone than most of the field.

Of note:
pp. 146-147 - Standards for building "Lifetime Homes" that can keep pace with aging owners, and meet the needs of almost any buyer in the market.

Provides basic information on materials and technology decision-making, good design, etc, and is Rich with references for further reading.

[Kim · Rating 5 out of 5]

This is a book I would seriously consider buying as we move into the next phase of our lives, which we hope will include building an energy efficient home in the next few years. This book includes case studies, including the 3 year journey the author took from choosing his land to moving in. I especially found chapter 3 "designing good homes" and the language of pattern fascinating, and would like to read more about it. The only downside, if one could call it that, is that all the homes discussed in the book are in England, so there may be some differences in code, climate and culture to consider.

[Elizabeth · Rating 3 out of 5]

Tips and examples of Green construction. Contents include reducing energy use and environmental impact, reducing water consumption and harmful impacts on health, environmentally preferred forms of construction and designing a sustainable garden. The final chapter provides links, references and contacts (many in Britain).

[Carol · Rating 4 out of 5]

Includes both theory and case studies of sustainable and eco-friendly buidling...photos and floor plans are abundant along with practical knowledge. I'm not building but this made for great "window shopping".