Cob House

Hello there!
I am not sure where to post this, but this place looks as good as any!
So, I have a friend, Gregory, who has land in Vilcabamba, Ecuador. He is currently traveling and working around the world and would LOVE to get in touch with people who are into natural building...he is envisioning a natural/straw bale/cob /eco type house on the property.
If we get in touch with the right people, he would love to talk about land/house share in exchange for building assistance.
If you , or anyone you know, is interested in this, please contact me to speak further:) Ciao!

here's a link with more information:

https://permies.com/t/37046/south-america-central-america-mexico/people-interested-Vilcabamba-Ecuador-natural#289164

Building with earth is not new to the Ecuadorian Sierra. No need to go looking elsewhere. Getting the freeform look popular with some might be a challenge, as straight and plumb is the norm there, but if you find the right work crew and foreman, you should get what you want. You might have some luck asking around at the architecture schools to see if someone already has experience with earth and the artsy, avant garde look. A quick search found this site, barroviejo.com, and this document, Analisis de la arquitectura vernacula del Ecuador: Propuestas de una arquitectura contemporanea sustentable. There are also some good articles that address seismic safety with earth architecture, something to be seriously considered in Ecuador. Good luck. It is a beautiful country...but it is not without its complications.

Hi Anna,

This plan and goal set is admirable. Similar to Andrew's observation, I would (and do) always say look to the "vernacular forms" of a region first, then perhaps to similar climate regions of the world and the vernacular of those cultures. Instead of looking for a "coop build," I believe this project would be better served finding a local "traditional builder" to work with. Unless the proposed "co op partner" comes on board with advanced skill sets and understanding in architecture...well...it often can lead to challenges in the "vision" each party has...and understanding who is responsible for what level of "skill."

I have "little projects" all over the globe at this point that I am lending a metaphoric had to. My other observation is that 1 acer is really a small space unless there is "common ground" open to residents of the area for "permaculture" endeavors. I would say for something like this project with independent parties, it would seem 2 to 2.5 acres would be a bare minimum, unless the only goal set is a "natural build," and "house share," potential.

Please keep us all up to speed on the progress of this project, and please post pictures when able. Questions and thoughts are always welcome.

Regards,

j