Looking to build earthship or adobe

Hi everyone,

My family and I just recently purchased a quarter of an acre of acre in Tres Piedres, NM and what to build some sort of structure. I’m interested to hear from anyone who has experience in building an earth house or adobe structure. We want to keep the cost relatively low. We envisioned a comfortable place that could serve as a cute little getaway. I’m thinking no more that one room if not a convertible living space.

I’m curious or what cost and other considerations I should keep in mind while beginning this endeavor. Also are there any organizations that help in building or schools that offer discounts for teach while using your building as a teaching example?

Thanks for your help!

Welcome to Permies!

I don't have the experience that you are looking for but am eager to hear what other's have for advice.

Hey Calvin,

Welcome to Permies! I guess the biggest consideration with earthen structures is that it's very time consuming. I built a 10' x 16' cob shed on weekends while working full time and it took a year to complete.

If you're want to go with the adobe/cob route I suggest taking a look at the Permies forum on T-bricks. T-bricks are essentially cast in-situ adobe bricks. I found it a pretty forgiving technique for a beginner cobber.

The second consideration is is wall systems are only a small part of the cost of the build. Roofs can be pretty expensive as well as interior finishing components like fixtures and cabinetry. Small spaces can be trickier because they require custom cabinets or built in furniture.

Congrats! I live in Crestone, CO just a few hours north of you and there's a lot of Earthships here. I'd certainly look into something like WWOOFers or something similar to help out with the labor. Tires can take forever to pound but well worth it. Or if there's others around you doing similar things work parties are always good too!

How'd your build go this season btw?

Hey there,

I live across the gorge from you in Lama, New Mexico.

I make adobes as a business and have a decade of experience working with adobe construction, built my own adobe home for my wife and kid four years ago. Currently building two additions. Also run workshops on making bricks, construction, and plastering.

I am new to this forum, can you direct message me to get contact info. I would be happy to sit down with you to talk all details of adobe, I have some books to give, we can get to work. I am self employed and have a really flexible schedule, so hit me up.