House of Earth: A complete handbook for earthen construction

"House of Earth" is a practical and easy to understand guide to building with the most abundant building material available: the earth below our feet. Start using local clay-soil, in combination with sand and straw, to create strong structural wall systems, as well as earthen plasters and floors, ovens, fire places, infill materials, insulation and clay paints. All techniques are ridiculously inexpensive, easy, non-toxic and beautiful.

Until recently, using clay-soil as a basic building material was practices by half the world population. The draw to the cities and the use of concrete is threatening this beautiful and sustainable way of housing the world. The material in this book was developed by "House Alive", an organisation dedicated to reviving and improving earthen building techniques. For 15 years they have taught workshops all over the United States and the world and have distilled their knowledge and experience in this handbook. Only proven and time-tested techniques and described.