Hi Cali,
Welcome to Permies.com...
!
I hate to be such a "stick in the cob"...
, but in general (folks reading this please challenge me if anyone thinks I am off base) hiring a "qualified" designer/builder that specializes in these traditional and natural modalities is an expensive challenge for some forms of natural building if a "turn key" project is planned for. "Turn Key" meaning that you are going to pay them to design and build the structure 100% without any (or very much) help from the property owners (you) or lots of volunteers.
Cobb is one of the most expensive, and if you want structural cobb...even more so!
I am actually one of those "alleged experts" and professionals that write about, work in and facilitate natural buildings (particularly historical structures and timber frames.) The first thing I tell a potential client, et al, is:
Look to the vernacular systems of architecture for a region and/or similar biome.
If you do not have natural clay deposits on the building site the added cost can raise the
square foot price of $350 (average) for a turn key "structural" cob home to well over double that. I emphasize structural as I do not recommend or build these. If I ever did facilitate one, it would have to be in the traditional design parameters and only with PE approval and input of my choosing. I have no issues with the more enduring forms of "infill cob" modalities.
If there are any in the "NEA" region, I do not know of them. I would suggest if they are there, vet them well, and demand at least 10 years (15 is better) of experience, full insurance, and a solid background in this and related modalities of historical and natural building plus a solid design background.
If you have any other questions, feel free to ask!
Regards,
j
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