Tuesday, June 14, 2011

Cob Houses




Here are some lovely pictures of cob houses for those interested in seeing what they look like. The first one is just around the corner from where I will be building mine. It was built by an amazing woman called Kate. She inspires me. Her house is so beautiful and inviting. I can't wait.

Thursday, May 26, 2011

My Pretty Little Trailer, Deck and Shed

On my little piece of paradise I have a very small trailer. I am so happy it is there as it means I can stay on Mayne Island and start planning what to do.  There is also a composting toilet and my first plan is to build a little straw bale cabin, around 100 square feet, as that is allowed without planning permission. So I am thinking 9' x 12'. This will house a shower etc, creature comforts. Maybe even a little sleeping loft. It is all tentative at the moment.

So here is my little trailer, and the marvelous deck that comes with it. I am also blessed with a shed to hold all my treasures, reclaimed building materials, stained glass windows etc. Don't forget my claw foot bath tub lol. So if anyone hears of windows, doors or any treasure that would suit a cob house, please let me know.
I just can't wait to sit on this deck in the sun.

The table has bench seats on either side, and makes into a bed.

The couch at the back of the trailer makes into a bed


  

My sister is going over with me for our first visit on July 11th. We plan to christen the place with a gin and tonic on the deck.  



The handy dandy shed awaiting building supplies.

Sunday, May 22, 2011

The Hand Sculpted House, a great book for those interested in Cob Houses

The Hand-Sculpted House: A Practical and Philosophical Guide to Building a Cob Cottage: The Real Goods Solar Living BookWhile on a fantastic workshop last summer I discovered this beautiful book on cob houses. I am going to order it now that I actually have my property. I have been drawing up designs for my home and feel the need to consult this wonderful book to firm up my ideas. I can't wait to get it in the mail.
The Hand-Sculpted House: A Practical and Philosophical Guide to Building a Cob Cottage: The Real Goods Solar Living Book
The advice I have received so far is to read, read, read and be open to ideas. I am so grateful for all the learning I have been blessed with and hope to finally get some video and info up on the Cob and Community workshop I did at Summerland with Cobworks.

I Got My Dream Property

Hello, well the first step to realizing my dream of building my own cob house is accomplished. I found this very special property on Mayne Island last September.
As of June 17th 2011 I take possession and I am so excited and grateful.
There is a small trailer on the lot, with a big deck and an outhouse, all I need for a summer retreat until I gather materials and money to build my cob house.
Here is the trailer and deck seen from below.

There is such a great deck for enjoying the view and fresh island air.

This is one of the potential building sites for my cob house.

The bottom part of the lot, with such lovely trees and sunlight.