So, I've long thought one of these q-model or r-model steel buildings/roofs would be the ideal starting point for a homestead, especially in a desert area where shade and
water catchment are key.
Google image search for quonset roofed buildings
Is this an OK place to discuss and brainstorm such a structure? I have given it a lot of thought and suspect members would have lots of feedback and ideas but maybe it's not permie enough? Or maybe at the plan stage it's more of a meaningless drivel sort of conversation.
A quick outline is to buy a freestanding type quonset building, something like a 50x46' and install it on tall sidewalls, at least 7ft. Instead of solid walls I'd use some sort of
concrete or block posts at the corners and every 6-10 feet with a concrete or steel beam on top to mount the quonset style roof to. This would require an engineer, and is one of the only parts of this project parts I wouldn't be comfortable DIY'ing without guidance. Make the arch of the quonset face south and frame that end wall with lumber and
free sliding glass doors and windows from craigslist. A wide arch, and shallow depth would be best I think for a
greenhouse made like this with no overhead glass, pictures of these used as airplane hangers show how cave like they get the deeper they are built. Under the front half of this steel roof would be mostly
greenhouse, and I'd want my tiny house to be here in the middle of the
greenhouse area, more towards the north edge to keep from filling the south facing glass wall. I'd like to build it with adobe, partially buried with just a row of windows above grade, and a small entrance area. The 200-400 sq ft tiny house would be the only part of the bigger structure that I'd consider finished, and would just be a place to sleep, or hang out when the more spacious area isn't quite hospitable. Plus very minimal plumbing and at most an RV type kitchen, with a small
RMH of
course.
The gaps between the posts I'd fill with adobe blocks, or rammed earth, or anything else I want to try making, gradually enclosing the larger space around my tiny house and big
greenhouse. Some would be large doors made from whatever materials I can salvage or find, and some more windows to let morning and afternoon sun in too. I have a lot more detail, including cost estimates but don't want to put too much if this isn't appropriate here.