NATURAL BUILDING

As human beings, we have been using local natural building materials for millennia. Many of these materials and old techniques still offer viable ways of construction and when viewed holistically are in many cases superior.

Building with locally available natural and recycled non-toxic resources is now commonly referred to as “natural building”. In opposition to the “sick building syndrome” and the exposure to a multitude of “forever chemicals” with todays so-called modern building construction, natural building seeks to create habitation that coexists with nature, and by so doing helps to rejuvenate and promote life and health on every level, for the inhabitants as well as for society and for the environment at large.

All natural buildings need natural breathable finishes and cement plasters and mortars are to be avoided. Natural finishes on the other hand can be highly aesthetically appealing, while in addition helping to promote healthy indoor environments.

What follows is a short overview of various natural building techniques explored by the author.