The Owner Builder 2010-2019 157-216

THE OWNER BUILDER • 157 February / March 2010 • 1

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

HOME BUILDERS

MAGAZINE

www.theownerbuilder.com.au

$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

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POLE FRAMED MUDDIEPergola and verandah framing

Modern take on traditional stonework

Reducing construction wasteSustainable homes in Mudgee

Modular kit home on the Sunshine Coast

Visit TOB at the Seymour Alternative Farming Expo. See p.57

THE OWNER BUILDER • 157 February / March 2010 • 3

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REGULAR FEATURES

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Coming events . . . . . . . . .13

Reader feedback . . . . . . .14

Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .53

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . .56

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .70

COVER PHOTOGRAPHThis passive solar mud brick home features a slab floor, clerestory windows, solar hot water and composting toilets.Story starts p.6. Photo: Sharyn Munro.

Telephone/Fax: 02 4982 8820 (10am–2pm Monday & Thursday)Fax: 02 4982 8820 (anytime)

Email: [email protected]

Web: www.theownerbuilder.com.au

Postal address:PO Box 9000 Paterson NSW 2421 AUSTRALIA

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The Owner Builder © Copyright 2010 • ISSN 0728-7275

6 FINDING THE FINISHA mud brick saga that produced a comfortable and very liveable home.

16 MODERN TAKE ON TRADITIONAL STONEWORKA replica granite block owner builder project honouring the traditions of the past.

18 DESIGN FOR ADAPTATIONLiving and building in a climate-changing world.

25 KEEPING IT OUT OF THE BINBuilding waste occupies up to 40% of landfill; how can you avoid unnecessary waste?

28 PERGOLA AND VERANDAH FRAMING TIPS Pt.1Gary Russell takes us through attaching these structures to the house.

37 CREATIVE USE OF TIMBERScreens and raised vegetable beds created with scrap or ‘weed’ timber.

38 DEBT FREE ON THE SUNSHINE COASTA contemporary customised kit home built in the factory.

46 ISSUES IN WATER SUPPLY PLANNINGDetermining your requirements and considering quality, sources, tanks and piping.

48 SHADES OF GREEN IN MUDGEESharyn Munro reports on the inaugural Mudgee Sustainable Homes Tour.

57 EXPO UPDATESeymour Alternative Farming Expo 2010, plus some great events from last year.

60 AFRICAN STONE TREASURESTraditional stone workmanship has been used in an African-themed restaurant.

68 BIDWILL BLITZ BUILD 2009Habitat for Humanity Australia helped build two new homes in less than 12 days.

71 WHAT A GREAT IDEA!A ‘traditional outhouse’ with a difference.

72 BUILDING DIARYBefore any building starts, there’s a mountain of paperwork and red tape to overcome.

ISSUE Nº 157 February / March 2010

Editor: Lynda Wilson

Publishers: AfriCat Pty. Limited (A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)

Printer: Graphic Impressions

Distributed to newsagents by: Gordon & Gotch Ltd

DEADLINES:Nº 158 Apr/May 2010 Editorial – 2 February Advertising – 9 February

Nº 159 Jun/Jul 2010 Editorial – 6 April Advertising – 13 April

THE OWNER BUILDER • 158 April / May 2010 • 1

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

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TWO STOREY MUD BRICK

Recycled portable schoolroomsGoing solo with poured earth

Kit home with curves – an updateShower room in the tropics

Post & beam with granite sand bricks

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REGULAR FEATURES

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Coming events . . . . . . . . .14

Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .20

Reader feedback . . . . . . .22 Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .53

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54


Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .59


From the back porch .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHFront: This double storey mud brick home on two hectares in the Indigo Valley is beautifully finished and features some treasured finds. Story starts p.39. Photo: Lynda Wilson.





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6 GOING SOLO WITH POURED EARTHA gracious home with generous proportions and elegant decorations – built by one.

15 EXPOS AND EVENTS2010 Seymour Alternative Farming Expo was once again a huge success.

16 KIT HOME WITH CURVESTwelve months on, the house is working as intended – and NEARLY finished!

23 PERGOLA AND VERANDAH FRAMING TIPSPart 2 – Finishing the job: height regulations, butt joints and downpipes.

28 BUILT TO LASTSubstantial timber post and beam frame, infilled with cement-reinforced decomposed granite bricks.

34 SCHOOL’S OUT FOREVER…Finding a new way to salvage our educational past, by recycling portable classrooms.

39 IF YOU BELIEVE…With no previous building experience, this mud brick home has been beautifully finished.

45 THE COMPLETE BUSHFIRE SAFETY BOOKA safe refuge room and an underground bushfire shelter are two options.

50 BUSHFIRE BUILDING REGULATIONSNew bushfire building regulations and ‘relocation’ policies will do little to make life safer for bush dwellers.

57 HOME WARRANTY NEWSWith only two insurers left covering the market, state governments are intervening.

60 WHAT A GREAT IDEA!Timber offcuts can be used for all forms of ‘shelter.’

68 A SCAVENGED SHOWER IN THE TROPICSAn urge to create resulted in a glass pavilion shower house built with recycled materials.

73 BUILDING DIARYWith final council acceptance received, Lynda has changed her mind!

ISSUE Nº 158 April / May 2010





DEADLINES:Nº 159 Jun/Jul 2010 Editorial – 6 April Advertising – 13 April

Nº 160 Aug/Sep 2010 Editorial – 1 June Advertising – 8 June

THE OWNER BUILDER • 159 June/July 2010 • 1

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

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ARTISAN FARM and POTTERY

Build a sustainable straw bale homeRelocated steel holiday cabin

Traditional farmhouse restorationChemicals in building products

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0$2500 worth of investment trusts from australianethical®

See p.51 for details on how to enter

THE OWNER BUILDER • 159 June/July 2010 • 3

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REGULAR FEATURES

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Coming events . . . . . . . . .14

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Reader feedback . . . . . . .23 Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .52


Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .60

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

COVER PHOTOGRAPHFront and back: This fascinating ‘virtual village’ encompasses a pottery, café, workshop, accommodation and family home. Story starts p.38.Photos: Sharyn Munro.





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6 FARMHOUSE RESTORATIONWhat was old is new again, providing a comfortable family home.

11 OWNER BUILDING ECONOMICALLYWith careful planning, owner builders can make significant savings.

16 COB WALLING IN THE TWENTY FIRST CENTURYRob Hadden is trying something ‘new,’ using cob for some of the walls.

24 CHEMISTRY FOR DESIGNERSUnderstanding the hazards in building products will help you make informed choices.

28 FIRESAFEA few personal ideas based on many years of living in a bushfire prone zone.

32 BUILDING REGSOwner builders take on the same regulatory responsibility as domestic builders.

35 STRAW BALE BUILDING UPDATELive the dream – build a sustainable straw and earth home.

38 CRAFTED FROM CLAYBarkala Farm – an owner built ‘virtual village.’

46 GREEN RENOVATIONPart 4: The gentle art of unbuilding.

57 BEACH BOYS HOLIDAY CABINA quirky little cottage at Torquay, that runs completely off the grid.

74 BUILDING DIARYOngoing progress has been slow, with some unexpected obstacles.

ISSUE Nº 159 June /July 2010





DEADLINES:Nº 160 Aug/Sep 2010 Editorial – 1 June Advertising – 8 June

Nº 161 Oct/Nov 2010 Editorial – 3 August Advertising – 10 August

THE OWNER BUILDER • 160 August / September 2010 • 1

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$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

ECO HOME demonstrating sustainability

Mud brick loft houseEasy straw bale renderingHistory restored - pub and cabinsA small building with little money

$2500 worth of investment trusts from australianethical® See p.23 for details on how to enter16

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Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Subscriber prize . . . . . . .23 Reader feedback . . . . . . .45 TOB merchandise . . . . . .54

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .60


COVER PHOTOGRAPHThis self sufficient eco home in suburbia was built on an average budget, but is in no way ordinary.Story starts p.48.Photo: Daniel Hopper.





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6 HISTORY IN A HIDDEN VALLEYA spectacular natural setting hosts a restored pub and accommodation cabins.

15 CORDWOOD MASONRYFeedback and observations from the earlier workshop series with Rob and Jaki Roy.

18 ECONOSPACEMAKINGConstructing a small habitable building with very little in the way of money.

24 FEELING REEDYPreparation of straw bales for render is made easier with the use of reed mats.

28 SUSTAINABLE HOMES IN MUDGEEHomes designed and constructed to reduce energy consumption and waste.

32 FIRE FIGHTING PUMP REDESIGNRemember to check your fire fighting pump – before the fire season starts!

34 LEGAL REQUIREMENTS FOR OWNER BUILDERSSome guidance for NSW owner builders as to their legal position.

36 SMALL FOOTPRINT INITIATIVEA house and garden tour showcasing wonderfully individual and earth friendly homes.

40 MUD BRICK LOFT HOMEMoving from a small regional town to a rural block.

47 PRICING GUIDE FOR HOUSEHOLD TRADES AND SERVICES Just how much should you expect to pay for a tiler, concreter or architect?

48 SELF SUFFICIENCY ON DISPLAYA lived-in demonstration eco home in suburbia, built on an average budget.

68 SPIRAL HOUSE IN NAMIBIABuilding a ‘tree house’ in an eco-friendly bush camp with the most spectacular views.

72 BUILDING DIARYFrom the ‘ashes’ of an old garage, a phoenix is rising.

ISSUE Nº 160 August/September 2010





DEADLINES:Nº 161 Oct/Nov 2010 Editorial – 3 August Advertising – 10 August

Nº 162 Dec 2010/Jan 2011 Editorial – 5 October Advertising – 12 October

THE OWNER BUILDER • 161 October/November 2010 • 1 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 02 4982 8820

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

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$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

INSPIRATIONAL RAMMED EARTH HOME

Straw bale granny flatPole frame house magicPlastic bottle greenhouseMud brick home 15 years on

$2500 worth of investment trusts from australianethical® See p.26 for details on how to enter16

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Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .21

Subscriber prize . . . . . . .26

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .53

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54


Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHArchitects build their own rammed earth and Colorbond house on a greenfield site that presented few restrictions. Story starts p.39.Photo: Lynda Wilson.

Phone: 0402 428 123(10am–2pm Monday & Thursday)




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6 SUBURBAN STRAWBudget plus beauty in Tasmania to inspire other suburban dwellers.

16 OWNER BUILDING 15 YEARS ONWas it worth the pain? This mud brick home is heaven for two active retirees.

22 BUILD A PLASTIC BOTTLE GREENHOUSE WITH A TYRE FOOTING

Extracts from very practical e-books show how to put recycled materials to good use.

28 FINDING ONE’S OWNPole frame house magic in the Strzelecki Ranges.

34 SWISS PERFECTION, COASTAL STYLERelaxed life at this beachside handcrafted home on the NSW mid north coast.

39 SACRED PROPORTIONSA mix of aesthetics, function and resources in this rammed earth and Colorbond home.

48 EXPERIMENTAL GRANNY FLATPractising straw bale construction before starting on the main house in Queensland.

57 WINGING IT NOT AN OPTION...…for successful straw bale building. Design and planning are of paramount importance.

60 MUCH MORE THAN A RENOVATIONA dream farm with a rundown cottage in country NSW is given a new lease on life.

68 SOLAR POWERED HEAT PUMPSCombining green technologies is a smart way of maximising energy savings.

70 BUILDING DIARYIt sometimes feels like a ‘slow boat to China,’ but the building progresses nevertheless.

ISSUE Nº 161 October/November 2010





DEADLINES:Nº 162 Dec 2010/Jan 2011 Editorial – 5 October Advertising – 12 October

Nº 163 Feb/Mar 2011 Editorial – 1 December Advertising – 7 December

THE OWNER BUILDER • 162 December 2010 / January 2011 • 1

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Hemp construction Beach house makeover

Modular building Learning to build with bales

A customised carved feature stone for your home, worth $1000 See p.63 for details on how to enter16

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ONE STEEP BLOCK, TWO GREAT HOUSES

GreatChristmas

specials inside

THE OWNER BUILDER • 162 December 2010 / January 2011 • 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .31

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .44Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56


Subscriber prize . . . . . . .63

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . .70

Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHMotivated by a sense of community, these beautifully designed houses are a successful example of neighbourly communication. Story starts p.6. Photo: Jonathan Wherrett.





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6 SHARING A SITE SUSTAINABLYTwo simple houses designed for two families on a single block.

16 OWNER BUILDER TO THE RESCUE60’s concrete house makeover in Torquay.

22 DRAW YOUR OWN DESIGN CONCEPT PLANSIt is possible to create your own concept plans.

25 GETTING THERE WITH STRAW BALECreating a real ‘paddock to plate’ experience including a straw bale house.

28 GROWING YOUR OWN HOUSEIs hemp the new green wave for owner builders?

32 OWNER BUILDER REGULATIONS NSWAn update on the changes in regulations for New South Wales.

35 DURABLE, AFFORDABLE DIY CONCRETE COUNTERTOPSFaster, easier and simpler countertops for $20 instead of $2,000.

38 BURAWAThe straw bale house inspired by the dwellings of Santa Fe.

47 MODULAR ‘MADNESS’A modular home turned out to be the best solution for this would-be owner builder.

54 FIREPLACE AIR VENTFire needs air, so supply it with an appropriate source.

60 ARCHITECT BECOMES OWNER BUILDERModern materials blended with a collection of recycled timbers and building materials.

68 ROB HADDEN – AN UPDATEA summary of fifteen years of owner building using earth building techniques.

71 BUILDING DIARYWater, water, everywhere… but not in the toilet!

ISSUE Nº 162 December 2010/January 2011





DEADLINES:Nº 163 Feb/Mar 2011 Editorial – 1 December Advertising – 7 December

Nº 164 Apr/May 2011 Editorial – 1 February Advertising – 8 February

THE OWNER BUILDER • 163 February/March 2011 • 1 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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Cob car shed

Home built reedbed

Cool pantries

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BUILDING SMALL

Soundproofed music studioWestern red cedar officeOne man’s tin ‘castle’

THE OWNER BUILDER • 163 February/March 2011 • 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Expos and events update . . . . . . .22

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Earth building update . . . . . . . . . . . 34

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Straw bale building update . . . . .58

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

COVER PHOTOGRAPHThis soundproofed music studio was designed to meet the size requirements for a shed in a suburban back yard. Story starts p.39.Photo: Ian Sercombe.





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6 BOATSHEDS BEYOND BOATSContending with tides – and rules – these boatsheds remain proudly standing.

12 TREATING DOMESTIC WASTE WATERIn a permaculture design, energy cycling is an important principle.

15 SELECTING A HOUSE SITEThings to consider for environmentally responsible building.

18 COB CAR SHEDLoadbearing cob walls support a curved roof – matching the house design perfectly.

24 COOL PANTRIESA cool pantry with low humidity is suitable for storing a wide range of food items.

26 MY PLACEOne man’s tin ‘castle’ in Tasmania.

28 DREAMS TAKE SHAPE IN CEDARThe urgent need for a home office resulted in this cosy timber creation.

39 GARRY’S STUDIOGarry required some space. A man cave. A mantuary. A shed!

42 DRAW YOUR OWN WORKING DRAWINGSPreparing your own detailed working drawings is possible, with some time and patience.

47 BEECHWORTH SUSTAINABLE HOUSE TOURHouse tours present a great way to see and experience what others have achieved.

50 A PLACE IN THE BUSHSited in the forest and on a ridge line, the risk of bushfire had to be addressed.

68 FERMENTED EARTHEN RENDERA versatile brew suitable for rendering straw bales, making mud bricks, plastering...

70 CONCRETE AND BAMBOOOn a recent visit to Sri Lanka, the difference in building techniques attracted attention.

72 BUILDING DIARYAnd now the REAL work begins...






DEADLINES:Nº 164 Apr/May 2011 Editorial – 1 February Advertising – 8 February

Nº 165 Jun/Jul 2011 Editorial – 5 April Advertising – 12 April

THE OWNER BUILDER • 164 April/May 2011 • 1 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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164

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TROPICAL RETREAT

Raised garden beds

Pole frame straw bale

How to be greywater smart

Making and fitting windows

Bungalow transformation

THE OWNER BUILDER • 164 April/May 2011 • 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

From the back porch . . . . . . . . . . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHExternal timber cladding will becomplemented by light earth wallsto complete this home in the Queensland rainforest.Photo: Rose Cuthbertson.





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6 LIGHT EARTH CONSTRUCTIONCombined with weatherboards and rose gum lining, this will be a stunning home.

15 HOW TO FIT WINDOWSFitting a timber or aluminium window in a timber framed house is not difficult.

18 MAKING YOUR OWN WINDOWSOne way of getting exactly what you want at a realistic price, is to do it yourself.

22 SKYLIGHTSThese could be just the ticket for providing light and ventilation, if installed properly.

24 BUILDING DIARYApproaching the home straight – finishing is moving along at a cracking pace.

28 HOIST THAT COB MIXAn old boat winch is put to a new use to help raise cob mixture to scaffold height.

31 USING THE GREYWATER FLOODRainwater and greywater use can significantly reduce the demand on mains water.

33 DIVE INTO THE NEW WORLD ORDER OF WATER!Planning to recycle water is crucial in a really sustainable house building project.

35 A STRAW BALE STORYAn open pole frame shed is being converted into a dream family home.

39 TRANSFORMATION OF AN ENERGY GUZZLING BUNGALOW‘Deconstructed,’ the old bungalow provided much material for its replacement.

46 GREEN RENOVATIONPart 5: The gentle art of unbuilding.

50 DURABLE RAISED GARDEN BEDSRaised beds provide ideal growing conditions and are an easy weekend DIY project.

60 EYE-CATCHERSThis array of unusual features proves that individual expression is not dead yet!

70 STONE SETTLER’S COTTAGEWith abundant supplies of stone and timber, they were an obvious choice of material.






DEADLINES:Nº 165 Jun/Jul 2011 Editorial – 5 April Advertising – 12 April

Nº 166 Aug/Sep 2011 Editorial – 7 June Advertising – 14 June

THE OWNER BUILDER • 165 June/July 2011 • 1 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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165

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LIVING SCULPTURE

Artisan deckSand your own floors

Stone bathhouseCow dung and straw bale

THE OWNER BUILDER • 165 June/July 2011 • 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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REGULAR FEATURES

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . .13

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 31,57

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . .56

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . .63

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Crossword . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

From the back porch . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHSioux Dollman’s eco-built straw bale home reflects her values of beauty, simplicity and functionality – with art thrown in to the mix.Photo: Sioux Dollman.





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6 COW DUNG MEETS STEEL AND STRAW BALECareful planning and attention to passive low impact principles has paid off.

15 GIANT JIGSAWBuilding can sometimes be a puzzle, but with satisfying results.

18 STRAW BALE BUILDING UPDATEPlaster for exterior straw bale walls.

22 EXPOS AND EVENTSTOB exhibited at a local Newcastle event, and supported a Victorian homes tour.

24 A LIGHT EARTH TEST WALLTime and money can be saved by building a test project.

28 ALL DECKED OUTWhile being functional, this deck is a work of art.

32 PLANNING FOR A BUILT IN PLANTRemovable panels allow space to accommodate a small tree ‘growing’ through the deck.

35 WHY USE AN ARCHITECT?Core services are sketch and detail design, contract documentation and administration.

38 LIVING SCULPTURECreating a home to suit the natural beauty of a picturesque village.

46 SANDING YOUR OWN FLOORSPain or pleasure, DIY or professional, hints and tips.

50 SHOWER AMONG THE KOALASStaff and volunteers use found materials to build amenities.

58 BUILDING CORNER WALL CABINETSMaximise the storage space in your kitchen with corner wall cabinets.

70 BUILDING DIARYAll done bar the shouting.

ISSUE Nº 165 June/July 2011





DEADLINES:Nº 166 Aug/Sep 2011 Editorial – 7 June Advertising – 14 June

Nº 167 Oct/Nov 2011 Editorial – 2 August Advertising – 9 August

THE OWNER BUILDER • 166 August/September 2011 • 1 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

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$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

166

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MODERNMUD BRICK

Costing straw baleTwo houses from one

Reverse brick veneer homeFarmhouse of straw

Polished concrete slab

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In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .44


Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .52

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . .60

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 61, 66

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

From the back porch . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHWayne and Helen Lascelles have created a truly unique home, perfectly in harmony with the surrounding bushland. Story start page 38.Photo: Greg Sims.





48


6 REVERSE BRICK VENEERAttention to detail is evident throughout this passive solar design home.

14 BROADACRE FARMHOUSE OF STRAWA straw bale workshop has given this home a great kickstart.

18 SOUTH AUSTRALIAN STRAW BALE WORKSHOPWorkshops are a great way to learn the hints and tips of building.

22 TWO HOUSES FROM ONEDividing one home into two can beat the housing shortage.

28 VEG OUTA fertile and creative community garden in St Kilda, Melbourne.

30 WHY AN OWNER BUILDER NEEDS GOOD SPECIFICATIONSEnergy efficiency is just one example of why detailed specifications are important.

35 STRAW BALE BUILDING UPDATEIs it cheaper to build a straw bale house?

38 MODERN MUD BRICK HOME OF OVERLAPPING CIRCLESAn architect designs his own unique home in the hills.

48 DENNES POINT COMMUNITY CENTREVolunteers helped bring this Bruny Island community project to life.

54 VERANDAH ENGINEERED WITH RECYCLED STEEL FRAMESWith a little ingenuity, ‘scraps’ can be very useful.

57 CREATING A SPECIAL FLOOR FROM POLISHED CONCRETETaking a chance on creating a distinctive and functional polished concrete floor.

70 BUILDING DIARYA house of rocks, sticks, mud and straw.






DEADLINES:Nº 167 Oct/Nov 2011 Editorial – 2 August Advertising – 9 August

Nº 168 Dec 2011/Jan 2012 Editorial – 4 October Advertising – 11 October

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

HOME BUILDERS

MAGAZINE


$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

167

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FUTURE HOMES ...students lead the way

Federation-style kit homeWeatherboard cottage redesign

Homemade wood heaterDesigning and planning


26

18

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REGULAR FEATURES

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . .13

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .44


Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

Expos & events . . . . . . . . . . .48

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . .68

COVER PHOTOGRAPHThe Future Homes 2010 design challenge to year 9 and 10 students resulted in some amazingly original ideas. Story starts page 38. Photo: Merewether High School.





35


6 MACEDON RANGES FARMHOUSEA contemporary addition to an existing weatherboard cottage.

10 STAR DESIGNThe 6 Star Standard for energy efficiency now applies throughout Australia.

15 STRAW BALE BUILDING UPDATEManaging moisture in straw bale walls using built-in timber sensors.

18 HOMEMADE WOOD HEATING STOVEBuilding an affordable wood stove for $165 is possible.

23 WHICH PRODUCT IS BEST FOR THE ENVIRONMENT?How does the ecospecifier global GreenTag™ product rating system work?

26 POURED EARTH AND CONCRETE BLOCKThe need to create more space resulted in a studio to complement the home.

30 OF A HOUSE DREAMINGA house of glass is dreamt up on the deck of a sailing boat.

35 WHAT TALENT AND TIMBERS CAN ACHIEVE IN A SHEDCraft skills turned a shed in Tasmania into a beautiful house.

38 FUTURE HOMES 2010‘From a back pack to a space ship, open your mind, design outside the square.’

50 TRANSFORMATION OF A WORKER’S COTTAGEAn asbestos-clad 1960’s worker’s cottage is transformed into a family home.

60 THE BUILDING OF BUDGEREE HOUSEA Federation-style kit home is given individual touches.

69 QUIRKY BRICK ARTShowcasing the underestimated artistic nature of bricklaying.

70 BUILDING DIARY…Plotting for the palace – an evolving plan.

ISSUE Nº 167 October/November 2011





DEADLINES:Nº 168 Dec 2011/Jan 2012 Editorial – 4 October Advertising – 11 October

Nº 169 Feb/Mar 2012 Editorial – 29 November Advertising – 6 December

THE OWNER BUILDER • 168 December 2011 / January 2012 • 1

THE AUSTRAL ASIAN

HOME BUILDERS

MAGAZINE


$6.95 (NZ $9.90 incl. GST)

168

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STRAW BALE IN QLD

Multi-level mud brickGeodome and straw bale

Natural finish to concrete floorsCreate a happy home

Enter our prize draw for a chance to win one of two Solar Whiz solar ventilation units(See page 68 for details)

THE OWNER BUILDER • 168 December 2011 / January 2012 • 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

48

35

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REGULAR FEATURESIn house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Straw bale update . . . . . . .12Coming events . . . . . . . . . . .14Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . .17Earth building update . . .22Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . .44TOB merchandise . . . . . . . .45

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64 Prize giveaway . . . . . . . . . . . .68From the back porch . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHA boat builder takes on the challenge of building his own straw bale home in Qld, with some surprising results.Story starts page 38.Photo: Drew Sayer





70


6 A PLACE OF GRACEA mud brick house in the NSW hinterland, built with love.

10 OWNER BUILDERS AND LEGAL RESPONSIBILITIESAs an owner builder, you take on all the risks and responsibilities of a registered builder.

16 EXPOS AND EVENTSA wrap-up of some events over the past two months.

18 NATURAL FINISHES FOR CONCRETE FLOORSA healthy and safe alternative is available, that looks great and is hard wearing.

25 NOT THE BACKBLOCKS…Building a mud brick to comply with BASIX.

28 CREATING CHOOKTOPIAWhat started out as a simple idea grew into a life changing sustainability journey.

31 AIR LEAKAGE IN BUILDINGSThere is a balance between too much or too little – get it right.

33 NON-TOXIC PRODUCTS AND MATERIALSThe healthy alternatives can be cost competitive.

35 HOW TO CREATE A HAPPY HOMEAttention to detail results in a home that is relaxing and comfortable to live in.

38 FROM BOAT BUILDING TO HOUSE BUILDINGA straw bale house takes owner builders for a ride on choppy seas.

48 FROM GEODOME TO STRAW BALEA straw bale B&B and geodome home in Victoria.

60 A STRAW BALE HOUSE IN SUNRAYSIAA weekend project in land rehabilitation evolves into a home.

70 BUILDING DIARY…Construction commences on John and Dana’s project.

ISSUE Nº 168 Dec 2011/Jan 2012





DEADLINES:Nº 169 Feb/Mar 2012 Editorial – 29 November Advertising – 6 December

Nº 170 Apr/May 2012 Editorial – 7 February Advertising – 14 February

THE OWNER BUILDER � 169 February – March 2012 1

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PASSIVE SOLAR in TASMANIA

Termite free timber extension

Straw bale flood repairsSelf-sufficient earthbag home

Wet areas special feature

WIN! A two nights rural straw bale stay. See p.68

THE OWNER BUILDER � 169 February – March 2012 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

Inside...

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REGULAR FEATURESIn house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Bits & bobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Prize giveaway . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

From the back porch . . . . . .74

COVER PHOTOGRAPHWith two other building projects under their belts, these owner builders were glad to complete their own home. Story starts page 38.

Photo: Lynda Wilson.


Email: [email protected]: www.theownerbuilder.com.auwww.facebook.com/TheOwnerBuilder

Postal address:

PO Box 9000, Paterson NSW 2421

AUSTRALIA

48


6 COUNTRY HAVEN BUILT TO LAST

A seamless, termite-less addition to a ‘60s weatherboard cottage.

14 A TEENAGE TAKE ON OWNER BUILDING

A hilarious look at the process through the eyes of a 14-year old.

16 THE BIRTH OF AN EARTHBAG HOME

A first time builder in the USA designs and builds her own home for $US 6000.

22 STONE SETTLER’S COTTAGE

The dream of building a stone cottage is still alive and well, and progressing.

25 EXPOS AND EVENTS

A wrap-up of some events over the past two months.

26 RURAL LAND SHARING CO-OPERATIVES

Have you considered this as an alternative to freehold land and a mortgage?

28 GREEN RENOVATION

Part 6: All dressed up. Decks and fencing.

32 OWNER BUILDER INERTIA

The path from ‘armchair builder’ to ‘down and dirty’ can be taken in small steps.

35 EARTH BUILDING UPDATE

Earth Building Association of New Zealand (EBANZ) Conference, October 2011.

38 PASSIVELY AND PATIENTLY SOLAR

Concrete block and Ecoply cladding combine with large glass windows for solar access.

48 SPECIAL FEATURE: WET AREAS

Bathrooms, toilets, laundries and mud rooms – as you have never seen them before!

60 STRAW BALE BUILDING UPDATE

After the flood – straw bale wall repair in Emerald, Qld.

70 BUILDING DIARY…

Roofing, rocking and body wrecking – a lesson in moderation.

ISSUE Nº 169 February – March 2012


Publishers:

AfriCat Pty. Limited

(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)


Distributed to newsagents

by: Gordon & Gotch Ltd

DEADLINES:Nº 170 Apr/May 2012

Editorial – 7 February

Advertising – 14 February

Nº 171 Jun/Jul 2012

Editorial – 3 April

Advertising – 10 April

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SUSTAINABLE DESIGNPRINCIPLES IN

ACTION

Eco town houses

Straw bale working bee

Extensions to a mud brick home

Food storage solutions

Free! Choose a free building book. See page 67

THE OWNER BUILDER � 170 April – May 2012 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

Inside...

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Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .15

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .28

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .48

Directory of services . . . . . .52

Expos & events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

A variety of alternative building

structures, including earthbag,

mud brick and straw bale, can be

seen at CERES in Melbourne, Vic.

Story starts page 49.

Photo: Lynda Wilson



Postal address:


AUSTRALIA

38


6 ENDURANCE

The story of two women and two (more) buildings.

16 UPDATING A MUDDY

A small 1980s mud brick house is given a spacious Hebel extension.

23 ECO TOWN HOUSES IN THE CBD

A small sustainable development close to the Perth CBD, being undertaken by two couples.


Straw bale walls and bushfires.

32 MUD HOUSE RESTORATION

A mud brick vault and dome, built in 1982, is given a little TLC.

38 TASMANIA – SEA TO SKY

Building a sustainable home that is also healthy was important to this couple.

49 CREATING A NEW WAY OF BEING

CERES is recognised as an international leader in community and environmental practice.

55 MOUNTAIN RIVER STRAW BALE WORKING BEE

A lot can be learned by working directly on a real building project.

58 SPECIAL FEATURE: FOOD STORAGE

From keeping vermin out to ensuring contents stay in, here are a few handy solutions to your storage problems.

68 TINY HOMES: SIMPLE SHELTER

‘Small rooms or dwellings discipline the mind; large ones weaken it.’ – Leonardo da Vinci.

74 FUTURE HOMES 2012

A new round of design challenges for students in Hunter and Central Coast Schools is about to start.

ISSUE Nº 170 April – May 2012


Publishers:


(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)




DEADLINES:Nº 171 Jun/Jul 2012

Editorial – 3 April

Advertising – 10 April

Nº 172 Aug/Sep 2012

Editorial – 5 June

Advertising – 12 June

THE OWNER BUILDER � 171 June – July 2012 1

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DIY bamboo flooring

Hemp building workshop

Firepits, barbeques and ovens

‘Cool’ building in the tropics

HILLSIDE BOARD& BATTEN

THE OWNER BUILDER � 171 June – July 2012 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

Inside...

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Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .14

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

Expos & events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .32

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .45

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .46

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .48


Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

Book extract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .67

Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Building on a slope is always a

challenge, but the views over

distant green paddocks and bush

clad hills made it worthwhile.


Photo: Sharyn Munro.



Postal address:


AUSTRALIA

57


6 LOCALLY MILLED, LOCALLY MADE

Hillside board and batten ‘tree house’ on a steep slope.

15 HEMP BUILDING WORKSHOP

Participants get their hands dirty learning about hempcrete.

18 COB STUDIO AT TUMBLEDOWN

An experiment resulted in a useful little building made of mud.

22 BUILDING WITH RE-USED MATERIALS

How can you get help with the hands-on work required for your project?

24 NIFTY RENDERING TOOL

A handheld machine speeds up the tedious job of rendering straw bale walls.

26 IT’S COOL IN THE TROPICS

Designing and building for the tropical climate of Magnetic Island.

33 DIY BAMBOO FLOORING

Laying your own strand woven bamboo floor is easily achievable.

38 SPECIAL FEATURE: FIREPITS, BARBEQUES AND OVENS

Indoors or outdoors, there is nothing like fire to draw a crowd.

50 COB RESTORATION IN CANTERBURY, NEW ZEALAND

An original cob cookhouse is painstakingly restored, with the help of volunteers.

57 A STRAW BALE HOUSE IN SUNRAYSIA – Part 2

The obstacles of owner building are finally overcome to complete a dream home.

70 BUILDING DIARY PART 5: BACK ON THE JOB

Work continues as John recovers from a badly injured back.

ISSUE Nº 171 June – July 2012


Publishers:


(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)




DEADLINES:Nº 172 Aug/Sep 2012

Editorial – 5 June

Advertising – 12 June

Nº 173 Oct/Nov 2012

Editorial – 7 August

Advertising – 14 August

THE OWNER BUILDER � 172 August – September 2012 1

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Building a straw bale house

Earthship building experience

Storage solutions for around the home

Extension centred around a fireplace

1940s double-decker bus revival

THE OWNER BUILDER � 172 August – September 2012 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .18

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20, 68

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .24

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .25

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .33


Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

The challenge of recovering and

converting an old double-decker

bus into stylish accommodation

has paid off handsomely.


Photo: Glenn Mc Master



Postal address:


AUSTRALIA

34


6 TURNING THE OUTSIDE IN

Extensions become the fiery heart of this pole-framed home.

13 BALED UP AND RENDERED: LOOKING BACK

The first of a two-part series about two sisters building a straw bale house.

19 PLANNING AND BUILDING FOR BUSHFIRE PROTECTION

An Integrated Planning and Building Framework has been implemented in Victoria.

20 STONE HOUSE CONSTRUCTION

A review of and extract from the newly released Australian book by Sarah Gunn.

26 THE GREEN SWING – CHOICE OF BUILDING MATERIALS

A development in inner-city Perth continues to test the builders’ sustainable goals.

34 AN EARTHSHIP BUILDING EXPERIENCE

A one-month internship in Taos, New Mexico provided a good working knowledge.

40 SPECIAL FEATURE: STORAGE SOLUTIONS

Window seats, cool cupboards, pantries, hints and tips.

48 REVIVAL OF A 1949 DOUBLE-DECKER BUS

An old bus is salvaged from rust and converted into accommodation.

52 THESE TRADIES I AM USING – EMPLOYEE OR CONTRACTOR?Understanding the difference is important for the owner builder.

58 ENERGY SMART HOME

Reducing power waste is key to this energy efficient home.

70 BUILDING DIARY PART 6: STICKING THE STICKS TOGETHER

The long anticipated straw bale working bee becomes a reality – almost!

ISSUE Nº 172 August – September 2012


Publishers:


(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)




DEADLINES:Nº 173 Oct/Nov 2012

Editorial – 7 August

Advertising – 14 August

Nº 174 Dec 2012/Jan 2013

Editorial – 2 October

Advertising – 9 October

THE OWNER BUILDER � 173 October – November 2012 1

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Painting and finishing a straw bale home

Analysing power requirements

Lifting roof trusses

Building your own swimming pool

Poured earth boomerang

Mud brick community complex

Milling your own timber


THE OWNER BUILDER � 173 October – November 2012 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

18

Inside...

26

15


Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13


Expos & events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .47

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .58

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .59

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .68

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH

This double-winged boomerang shaped

house turns its back to wet and wild

weather, keeping its occupants snug.


Photo: Sharyn Munro



Postal address:


AUSTRALIA

60

ISSUE Nº 173 October – November 2012


Publishers:


(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)




DEADLINES:Nº 174 Dec 2012/Jan 2013

Editorial – 2 October

Advertising – 9 October

Nº 175 Feb/Mar 2013

Editorial – 27 November 2012

Advertising – 4 December 2012

6 BALED UP & RENDERED: LOOKING BACK

In part two, the sisters get on with painting and fitting out their straw bale house.

15 JIM DA SILVA FARM

A 10–bed mud brick complex, built with volunteer labour.

18 STRAW BALE WORKING BEE

A prospective owner builder’s workshop and working bee experiences.

22 HOW MUCH POWER DO WE NEED?Analysing how much energy electrical devices use and if they are really needed.

26 SPECIAL FEATURE: FENCES

Walls of straw bale, recycled timber and metal, plus a whimsical stone creation.

32 MILLING QUALITY WOOD FROM YOUR FARM GROWN TREES

Article first published in Town & Country Farmer June/July 2011.

35 BEAR’S CASTLE

A folly or a fairytale house, made of cob in the 19th century still survives.

38 GRECO-GIPPSLAND POURED EARTH

A boomerang shaped post and beam solar home in Victoria.

48 LIFTING ROOF TRUSSES

A home made lifting device is used to place roof trusses on a shed.

50 A DREAM IN THE MAKING: OUR HALF BUILT SHED-HOUSE

The house design that evolved on the deck of a sailing boat becomes reality.

60 BUILD YOUR OWN SWIMMING POOL

Finished with the house, Miles Harris decided to add an owner built swimming pool.

70 BUILDING DIARY PART 7: BEE IS FOR BALES

The wall raising working bee proves to be both useful and productive.


THE OWNER BUILDER � 174 December 2012 – January 2013 1

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Octagonal timber gem

Living in an owner built stone house

Owner builder finance

Superadobe fire circle and dome

Stone settler’s cottage

Straw bale building diary update

Special feature: OUTDOORS


THE OWNER BUILDER � 175 February – March 2013 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 16, 68

Expos & events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .21

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .22

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .23

Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .34

We want your... . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37


Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .49

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

TOB merchandise . . . . . . . . . .55

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Bits & bobs . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .64

Back porch . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

FRONT COVER PHOTOGRAPH

Adapting an octagonal plan to

incorporate passive solar design

principles and maximise on the views

resulted in a light filled home.

Story starts page 38. Photo: Sharyn Munro



Postal address:


AUSTRALIA

ISSUE Nº 175 February – March 2013


Publishers:


(A.B.N. 24 106 576 881)




DEADLINES:Nº 176 Apr/May 2013

Editorial – 5 February 2013

Advertising – 12 February 2013

Nº 177 Jun/Jul 2013

Editorial – 2 April 2013

Advertising – 9 April 2013

6 LIVING IN STONE

Buying a unique owner built stone home helped one couple realise their dream.

12 BUILDING IN STONE

An owner builder interview with Bruce Davidson, a reprint from TOB 12 Jul–Oct 1984.

16 SMALL HOUSES

A review and extract from ‘Small Houses,’ published by The Taunton Press.

24 OWNER BUILDER FINANCE

One of the keys to a successful project is to plan ahead and get it right.

26 SPECIAL FEATURE: OUTDOORS

Ferry shelters, cubby houses, benches and arbours, and a delightful Shepherd’s Hut.

32 PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Peter Pedals of Rainbow Power Company shares some personal insights with us.

38 OCTAGONAL HOME FOR OLD TREES

With fabulous views all round, an octagonal house seemed the logical choice.


Using only sandbags, barbed wire and earth, it is possible to create a shelter.

60 STONE SETTLER’S COTTAGE

Another update on the stone cottage Reg Wilson is building himself in Qld.

68 THE ACCESSIBLE HOME

A review and extract from ‘The Accessible Home,’ published by The Taunton Press.

70 BUILDING DIARY PART 8

Winter is waning and spring has sprung; time to get back to serious building.


THE OWNER BUILDER � 176 April – May 2013 1

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Earth-sheltered haven


Container becomes

studio flat

Insulating earth walls

Small but efficient

straw bale

Energy saving tips

Special feature:

SURFACES

Septic tank upgrade

THE OWNER BUILDER � 176 April – May 2013 3

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REGULAR FEATURESOur details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

We want your. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .53

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Book extract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79

From the back porch . . . . 82

ISSUE Nº 176 April – May 2013

Our cover story Special feature

6 EARTH-SHELTERED HAVEN

A small home perfectly designed for its occupants’ current needs, with the option to expand.

25 SURFACESA stunning timber floor, straw and clay wall relief, concrete staining, and plenty of mosaics.

15 BUILDING FOR A GOOD NIGHT’S SLEEP

Careful consideration during designing and building could lead to peaceful nights.

19 ENERGY SAVING TIPS

Appliances in the home can use a lot of power, but they don’t have to.

22 INSULATING WATTLE AND DAUB WALLS

Various options were considered in order to provide the required insulation value.

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33 GREEN RENOVATION

Part 7: The extension is finished!

38 IN PRAISE OF SEPTIC TANKS

An old septic tank can be upgraded to be more efficient.

40 PROFESSIONAL PROFILE

Peter Lees (architect) and Irene O’Keefe are seasoned owner builders and adventurers.

42 CANYON STRAW BALE HOME

Scaled to suit the site, and the needs of the family, this home is far from mundane.

50 SURFACE FINISHES FOR CONCRETE SLABS

Moisture problems can be avoided by being patient and following a few basic guidelines.

58 FROM SHIPPING CONTAINER TO

STUDIO FLAT

A shipping container was used to create a self-contained studio flat on a small suburban site.

64 STRAW BALE IN SMYTHESDALE

A small, efficient house, built with a raised floor on stumps.

81 HOW TO DESIGN A LOW CARBON BUILDING

A few key points can make a huge difference.

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Granite and limestone

Steel frame kit home

in FNQ

Timbercrete & Mini Orb

Guide to earth walls

FEATURE: Doors &

windows

Laying a slate roof

Now 84 pages of colour!

THE OWNER BUILDER � 177 June / July 2013 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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REGULAR FEATURESOur details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .37

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .65

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .66

We want your. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .69

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .74

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78

Book extract . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .79


ISSUE Nº 177 June / July 2013

Our cover story Special feature

42 THE GLENLYON HOUSEA two-storey straw bale house in Central Victoria, with post and beam frame ...and a stunning scissor truss timber barn!

48 DOORS & WINDOWS

Windows and doors are so much more than just ways of keeping out the weather.Construction, painting and recycling have resulted in some ingenious solutions.

6 THE STORY OF GREY GUMS

A house of Timbercrete, jarrah and Mini Orb on a concrete slab in southern NSW.

14 MASONRY HEATERS FOR THE OWNER BUILDER

Not yet very popular in Australia, masonry heaters have many unique features.

18 A HOME IN THE RAINFOREST

A retirement project led to the building of a steel framed kit home in FNQ.

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What earth wall construction method is best for your building project?

28 GRANITE AND LIMESTONE BUILDING

Over 35 years of experimenting with stone in WA resulted in this studio/home.

32 TIMBER FRAMED KIT HOME IN TASMANIA

Simple design and ease of construction were the key criteria for this build.

38 NEW PORCH TO ‘OLD’ HOUSE

Recreation of a superb porch seen on a church in Wales.

40 HOW TO SLATE A ROOF

Learning how to lay slates is not all that hard; it just requires a little planning.

60 BUILDING SOLIDLY IN FAR NORTH QLD

Building a house is just one of a number of projects happening on this block.

70 WALL TYPES AND WALL INSULATION

Walls play a critical role in thermal performance of a home.

72 MEET OUR READERS…

…what are they like and what do they get up to?

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Passive solar, European style


Timbercretewith heavy

timber

Mud brick house design

guidelines

Smartstraw bale

Building with cob

FEATURE:DIY

furniture

Kit homegroundwork

Now 84 pages of colour!

THE OWNER BUILDER � 178 August / September 2013 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au • 0402 428 123

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REGULAR FEATURES

Our details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5

Coming events . . . . . . . . . . . . . .12

Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .13

We want your. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .29

Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54

Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .61

Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62

Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70

Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .77

Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .78


ISSUE Nº 178 August / September 2013

Special feature

6 PASSIVE SOLAR EUROPEAN STYLEAttempting to meet the European Passive House standard in Central Victoria, this timber-clad house has some interesting design elements.

31 DIY FURNITURE

15 MUD BRICK HOUSE DESIGN GUIDELINES

Achieving a 6 star energy rating for your mud brick home.

18 1929 ENGINE PRODUCES AFFORDABLE ENERGY

Integrating the very old with the latest technology to produce affordable energy.

21 STRAW BALE IN A SUBDIVISION

This home in the Upper Hunter Valley is smart, self-sufficient and sneakily organic.

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40 RAISED GARDEN BEDS

Bullnose corrugated steel, a few off cuts and some fixings – that’s all that is needed!

42 TIMBERCRETE RURAL RETREAT

Muted colours of sandstone, timber and steel help to anchor this home in its surrounds.

49 TREE WINDOW

Using a fork in a tree branch as part of a window structure.

50 COB DREAMING AND BUILDING

Solo parenting three daughters, working part-time and owner building in Maleny… why not?

58 NOT QUITE SQUARE

An exhibition sharing the ‘The Story of Northern Rivers Architecture.’

65 BUILDING DIARY PART 9

Windows, wildlife, wildfire and whoa! it’s holiday season…

74 KIT HOME BUILDING

Groundwork can take the stress out of the kit home building process.

79 BOOK EXTRACT FROM ‘LIVING HOMES’

Tilt-up construction – new lift to the ancient art of stonework.

A timber bath, built-in cupboards and a computer desk, lamps and tables, a wooden seat and shoe rack, a chip-carved bookcase, and a fantasy bedhead!

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mud brick


Cool temperate

design

Cottagetropicalretreat

Shedtechnology

Buildingwith straw

FEATURE:Book

storage

Greywaterplumbing

Now full colour!

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REGULAR FEATURES

Our details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . 12Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13We want your . . . . . . . . . . .29Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . 33Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .56Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .63Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70Reviews & Extracts . . . . . 80

ISSUE Nº 179 October / November 2013

Special feature

42 MUD BRICK HOUSE FOR A MUSICIANA heavy timber-framed dwelling with mud brick infill walls in the Adelaide Hills, incorporating new and recycled materials.

34 BOOKS STORAGE

6 THE NEW BEST IDEA IN BUILDING – THE SHED HOUSE

Made of concrete, corrugated sheet, glass and steel, this shed will last almost forever.

14 TIMBER VERSUS STEEL FRAMING

It is important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of both materials.

16 TROPICAL RETREAT – FINISHING ROSE GUM COTTAGE

A hardwood weatherboard exterior and interior walls of pine wall panelling.

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21 PASSIVE SOLAR DESIGN FOR COOL

TEMPERATE CLIMATES

Tasmania is perfect for the application of passive solar space heating.

26 EXPLORING THE INVISIBLE HEART OF HOME

Sheltermaking puts us in touch with nature and exposes us to it in an active way.


There is so much to be learned by sharing time with like-minded people on a course.

49 GREYWATER READY PLUMBING

Reusing greywater takes the pressure off precious scheme water and is invaluable for irrigation.

58 TANGLEWOOD

A mortise and tenon timber framed garage with loft on a suburban site, built to last.

67 WHICH IS BETTER – GAS OR ELECTRICITY?

Exploring the pros and cons of using gas or electricity in your home, can help you make the best decision.

75 THE LITTLE BUG

A sculptural letterbox inspired by vintage racers.

From a repurposed underbed drawer to a bookshelf cum art piece, books never looked so good!

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Two-storey straw baleand rammed earth


Reciprocalroof design

FEATURE:Follies &foibles

Internal clay render

DIY doubleglazing

Recycledmaterials

Rammed earth &

radial timber

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Inside...

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REGULAR FEATURESOur details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . 12Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . 31Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Expos and events . . . . . . . .58Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .59Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60We want your . . . . . . . . . . .63Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .70Reviews . . . . . . . . . . . . . .75, 76From the back porch . . . . .82


Special feature

42

KURRAJONG HILLA two-storey straw bale and rammed earth home on the far south NSW coast.

32 FOLLIES AND FOIBLESSometimes a little bit of whimsy is exactly what is needed…

6 STRAW BALE WITHOUT EAVES

This unconventional construction needed meticulous rendering and gutter detailing.

14 SALVAGE MINING

The creative use of recyclable building materials of character is evident in this project.

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18 WINDOW TINTING

Choose the correct type of window film for each task to ensure success.

20 RENDER GAMES

Using clay render on internal straw bale walls.

24 MOANA HILL: A LABOUR OF LOVE

A straw bale house on a hill with commanding views near Gunnedah, NSW.

28 DOUBLE GLAZING REVISITED

Double glazing helps to reduce energy use while maintaining pleasant living conditions.


The development of a tadelakt type coating from oyster shells in West Africa.

64 TIGGER’S HOUSE

Rammed earth walls and radial timber cladding combine beautifully in this Victorian home.

78 RECIPROCAL ROOF

Careful design, along with precision cutting and alignment, creates a beautiful roof.

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Earth covered stone haven


Early settler’s bush hut

Not so humble backyard

sheds

Fresco onlime render

Cordwoodfamily home

Earthship adventure

Pole framedtimber beauty

Thirty years of Topsy building

SPECIAL FEATURE Stunning stonework

THE OWNER BUILDER � 182 April / May 2014 3 © www.theownerbuilder.com.au

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Inside...

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REGULAR FEATURES

Our details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . 12Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . 37Review/extract . . . . . . . . . . 52Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .54Online insights . . . . . . . . . 64Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .65Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66We want your . . . . . . . . . . 69From the back porch . . . . .82


Special feature

78 STONE HAVEN

When the rock is available, build a stone house! This earth covered house presents a lovely stone face to the world.

28 STUNNING STONEWORK

Our readers showcase the clever and beautiful things that can be done with a rock or two...

6 AUSTRALIA’S FIRST EARTHSHIP

We get both designer and owner builder perspectives on this pioneering project.

14 RENDER GAMES

Fresco on lime render – Ken Longshaw continues the adventures involved in coating his straw bale walls.

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20 REUSING SHIPPING CONTAINERS

VS. DIY ALTERNATIVES

We get some reader feedback on a previousarticle published in TOB 180 Dec 13/Jan 14.

24 ARTISANS PARK EARLY SETTLER’S

BUSH HUT

Making a ‘new’ storage shed look like an old hut.

38 EARTH RENDER

Wall preparation and application techniques.

42 THIRTY YEARS OF TOPSY BUILDING

As the Woman prepares to leave her Mountain...

48 THE GREEN SWING SHED

Backyard sheds don’t have to be boring at all.

58 THE WEDGE-TAIL EAGLE HOUSE

This pole framed mud brick beauty simply flies…

70 WHITE EARTH RESERVATION

CORDWOOD HOME

Collaborative construction of a natural, attractive community home instilled pride of ownership.

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Investing in mud

brick


Three different straw

bale homes

Walls and energy ratings

Window terminology

Oiling floors

Earth covered stone home

Houses of hemp

SPECIAL FEATURE Animal housing


Our cover story

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Inside...

6

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REGULAR FEATURES

Our details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . 12Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . 14Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .58Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . .67Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . 68We want your . . . . . . . . . . . 71Review/extract . . . . . . . . . .78From the back porch . . . . .82

ISSUE Nº 183 June / July 2014

Special feature

22 INVESTING IN MUD BRICKS AND MORTARA builder in Victoria constructs a future investment income from a complex of owner built structures.

32 ANIMAL HOUSINGOur readers send in their innovative and beautiful ways to provide homes for their furred, feathered and finned animal friends.

6 LOXTON STRAW BALE

Perspectives from both architect and owner builders’ experiences.

15 WALLS AND ENERGY RATINGS

Clearing up the misunderstanding about ratings for earth building.

20 HOUSES OF HEMP

The Big Bad Wolf would find it hard to blow down a hemp house.

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27 HEAVY LIFTERS

The Heavy Timber Framers of Australia inaugural get together proved to be a hit.

28 STRAW BALE INSPIRATION

This long awaited update to an earlier article takes us back to the early days of the build.

40 AN UPDATE ON WINDOW TERMS

Get to grips with current window terminology.

42 RETIRING TO OWNER BUILD

The good life – but not the easy life – for this couple who took on a major rebuild project.

48 OILED TIMBER & CONCRETE FLOORS

How to make the right choice for floor finishing.

53 EARTH COVERED STONE HOME

Using solar passive heating and cooling, plus recycled and renewable materials where possible.

62 AT THE END OF THE RAINBOW

Lessons from over 30 years in a mud brick home.

72 RAISING THE ROOF

This straw bale home in Central Victoria employed an unusual roof building technique.

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Pole framed, stone walled masterpiece


Renovating a 1920s brick

bungalow

Beautiful handcrafted

floors

Korean natural

building

Rammed earth

research

Energy ratings

demystified

Earth covered

stone home

SPECIAL FEATURE Truth windows, niches and

surface sculptingGetting your straw bale through council



Our cover story

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38

REGULAR FEATURESOur details . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .4In house . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 5Coming events . . . . . . . . . . 12Line ads . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13Coming soon . . . . . . . . . . . . 23Plans . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .30Directory . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50Subscriptions . . . . . . . . . . . . 61Back issues . . . . . . . . . . . . . .62We want your . . . . . . . . . . .65Bookshop . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 72Review . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .76From the back porch . . . . .82

Special feature

6 CASTLE MOUNTAINOne couple’s owner builder adventure from one-bedroom cottage to family home.

42 TRUTH WINDOWS, NICHES & SURFACE SCULPTINGEnjoy the wide range of joyful and exuberant examples of embellishment and delight in the smallest of details sent in by our readers.

14 WALLS AND ENERGY RATINGS

Factors other than external wall materials also effect energy ratings.

19 THE RAMMED EARTH KALGOORLIE PROJECT

Could this be the future of successful housing programs in dry arid regions?

24 TRADITIONAL AND CONTEMPORARY NATURAL

BUILDING IN KOREA

An active natural building movement demonstrates a range of materials, methods and systems.

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32 THREE DIFFERENT FLOORS FLAGGED

FOR ROB’S HOUSE!

After nearly eight years, the time has come to do something about the lower level floors.

38 SOMETHING OLD, SOMETHING NEW

A renovation and extension to a 1927 Edwardian brick bungalow.


Earth buildings – how do they rate?

57 EARTH COVERED STONE HOME

Following on from Part 1, it is now time for fitting out the home.


Council applications for straw bale homes.

76 BOOK EXTRACT

‘The Backyard Homestead

Book of Building Projects’

Handy hints for drilling holes and driving screws plus instructions for building a mini shed.

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Documents

The Owner Builder 2010-2019 157-216