Table of Contents
Acknowledgments xiii
Introduction by Ianto Evans xv
What This Book Offers You xvi
About the Authors xvii
Questions & Answers about Cob xviii
PART 1: PHILOSOPHY, BACKGROUND, AND DESIGN by Ianto Evans
(What You Need to Consider Before You Start to Build) 1
Chapter 1: Natural Building 7
Chapter 2: Oregon Cob 24
Chapter 3: Creative Economics 40
Chapter 4: Tilt and Spin 54
Chapter 5: The Site You Build On 60
Chapter 6: Designing with Cob 76
Chapter 7: Redefining"House" 93
PART II: BUILDING THE COB COTTAGE by Michael G. Smith 113
Chapter 8: Materials and Tools 119
Chapter 9: Site Respect and Preparation 141
Chapter 10: Drainage and Foundations 155
Chapter ll: Making the Best Cob 166
Chapter 12: Building Cob Walls 180
Chapter 13: Sculpting with Cob 197
Chapter 14: Windows and Doors 212
Chapter 15: Roofs for Cob 227
Chapter 16: Natural Floors 246
Chapter 17: Plasters and Finishes 257
ONWORD: BRIDGING THE INNER AND OUTER WORLDS
by Linda Smiley 275
APPENDICES 295
Appendix 1: Common Errors in Cob Construction 295
Appendix 2: Codes and Permits 298
Appendix 3: Cob and Water 304
Appendix 4: Cob and Earthquakes 311
Appendix 5: Research Needed 315
Appendix 6: Wildlife in the Home by Ianto Evans 319
Appendix 7: Teaching and Learning 323