Double Wide Farmhouse (click to enlarge)
Specifications: 792 sq. ft. interior, 2 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 25′ x 39′
Description: I grew up in Iowa and Nebraska where this style of architecture is prevalent. Classic style farmhouses are extremely practical. This particular design is a variation of my Double Wide. Changes include 10.5′ high walls on the north half, shed roof on the south half, loft over the bath and master bedroom, single framed wall down the center, and a few other minor changes to doors and windows. This is a good design for building in stages, including adding additions later.
Double Wide Farmhouse (click to enlarge)
Earthbag House Plans 
Previous comments below:
Question: how do you attach siding to the bags? furring strips? how do you attach the furring strips?
I’m thankful for this blog. i enjoy it very much.
jpu
Owen: Yes, furring strips. 2x2s, 1x3s or 1x4s will work. Rough milled wood is fine for furring strips, which means you can mill your own wood for very little money, just make sure it’s dried properly. Take care to keep furring strips in alignment (one plane) or the siding will be uneven. That means taking special care when stacking earthbags and using corner guides. Attach with poly baling twine. Embed lengths of twine between courses as you build, and then add furring strips after wall is built.
One option is using wavy edge siding. See if your local sawmill sells this. It has a really nice natural look. (I have some good pictures, maybe I’ll post some.)
Glad you like the blog. Every question/answer adds value that helps other readers, so don’t hesitate to ask questions.
Question: If you are building a home, is it enough for inspectors to see a trailer chassis as the foundation to avoid having to get permits? Or do you have to build off- site and bring the finished home to the location?
Owen: You’ll have to talk to your building officials. Codes vary by state, county and city.
I’m looking to build a 4-season, off-grid cottage in Ontario. My site is on a granite and soil hill overlooking a large beaver pond. The view faces north. Is there a big disadvantage to building something like this, but with the window wall facing north? Also – i’ll need insulation. Can this be built with straw bales instead of earthbags? It’s difficult to source anything that insulates to go inside the bags in Ontario (unless you have atip!).
thanks, Owen,
Ross
Build with straw bales. Reduce window sizes, use good quality insulated windows and use insulated shutters at night. Superinsulate floor, foundation and roof. Add radiant floor heat.