Natural Building: A Guide to Materials and Techniques

by Tom Woolley, Jonathon Porritt (Foreword)

Natural building involves construction with materials that have undergone less processing and manufacturing than conventional synthetic products. Wherever possible, the natural materials that are used are renewable, originating from crops, and are obtained locally. Transport, pollution, carbon emissions, and fossil fuel use are therefore minimized and the end-product is harmonious, healthy, and environmentally beneficial. This book describes the many materials and methods that have been used by the pioneers of natural building; discusses the reasons why various materials have been chosen and frankly explains their advantages and disadvantages; provides a detailed consideration of all the main forms of natural construction, including building with earth, timber, and straw bales; and covers green and natural roofs, lime and masonry, and the use of hemp, as well as natural insulation materials, paints, and finishes. It thoroughly examines all the techniques involved, and analyzes the principles of green building and the issues involved in planning and regulatory approvals. It is lavishly illustrated with more than 220 color photographs and diagrams.

192 pages, Hardcover

First published January 1, 2006

Reviews

[Jonathan · Rating 4 out of 5]

Informative text on natural building approaches and technologies, Natural Building also discusses our responsibility to commit to principles of best practice if we are to wean ourselves from unsustainable construction. I agree with Liam's review: more construction details to illustrate the use of materials would have been beneficial, especially as some photographs were not good quality and thus didn't necessarily reinforce the descriptions. Generally well-composed and a good use of case studies.

[Liam · Rating 3 out of 5]

a good overview of the subject but could do with more construction details in my opinion