Gary Cooper

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since Dec 31, 2022
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Recent posts by Gary Cooper

Hello

Thank you so much for taking the time to answer. I should have stated that I am in Canada, Ontario more specifically. I think a lot of your advice still applies, and I agree that I will probably have to look for someone local that has experience with strawbale.
I hadn't considered that the total footprint would be the one used for code/tax purposes, so thank you for that as well. The design I posted is designed for 400sqft interior, and with 18inch thick walls so approximately 529 sqft total (I hadn't realized it was that much!)

Good to know about the limitations of lime on horizontal surfaces. Maybe some sort of inset granite slabs in high wear areas.

For the stove, I agree totally, that was my goal, to use a little wood as possible to heat/cook, and to take advantage of outdoor areas when possible. The less wood needed to haul, the better. The stove I used in my design is the Walker Continental, which I haven't seen much about, but it says its for ~1200sqft, so I figured I may have to open the door somedays to cool off the house a bit if needed.

I think my main reason for sharing my design is that I don't see a lot of houses that incorporate the furniture into the house itself, which to me seems obvious, but I thought maybe there is a practical reason why it doesn't seem very common, that or I am just weird.

I was thinking about a shed roof, but now I'm not sure. I would appreciate any suggestion you may have for choosing one over the other regarding cost/ease of construction?

I've attached some more photos in case you can't view the 3d file.

Here is another link to the file: https://www9.zippyshare.com/v/QFb40EKg/file.html
The file is in .3mf format, so if you have access to a windows 10 PC, you can install 3d Builder from the MS store (free) if it's not already installed.

Again, thank you for your time
2 years ago
Hello

I've been interested in Permaculture and owner built off-grid design for a long time but I feel like I have to try something, the sooner the better.

The total floor space is 400sqft (20'x20')
I approached my design from an integrated perspective in order to minimize not only the size/cost of the house, but also the need for any additional furniture/accessories. Of course, the design is never complete, but I wanted to get some feedback as to whether I'm crazy or not.

I know there may be code issues that will need to be addressed, and I would like to locate architect/engineer who is familiar with Straw Bale construction, but I'm wondering if there is something about my design that is just not possible to translate into the real world?

I used the 3d Builder tool that came with Windows10 (I know, it sucks) to visualize my design, and it has gone through lots of evolutions. Attached is my current design, and I know I'm missing some elements, but I was hoping someone can give me some constructive criticism that may challenge me.

The stove in the middle is based on the Walker Continental Stove, but I'm flexible as to the type/size of the stove, it was just the easiest one to model simply, and I like the features/cost ratio.

The counters, bench, and bed platform would ideally be made of rocks/rubble mortared in shape and plastered with the same lime as the walls. The counter areas near the sink and the bathroom would be tadelakt for water resistance. The sink could be integrated as well, but I'm ok with using a regular tub sink.
The bathroom may need some work, as I may put a bathtub in. The storage cabinet that separates the bathroom from the main room provides the majority of the storage, along with the many shelves along the wall. The box in the corner under the shelves represents the small photovoltaic battery/inverter equipment, as the electrical will be very minimal as there is no fridge and I would rely on dehydrated/canning food for preservation.

Any feedback would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you.

<I tried to upload the .3mf file but it isn't allowed. Here is a link to it>
https://drive.google.com/file/d/1v3rJdSvfiQCzKx-yyPbuv5GBUWjNzzWX/view?usp=share_link
2 years ago