Solar Pit House

Solar Pit House (click to enlarge)

Specifications: 1,127 sq. ft. interior living space, 441 sq. ft. interior greenhouse, total = 1,568 sq. ft. interior, Footprint: 36’x53’

Description: This modern solar pit house is based on the traditional pit house. The construction is much the same. Additional ‘modules’ have been added to create an elongated rectangular design for added living space and windows added on the south for solar gain. Each module is based on wood posts set in geopolymer or concrete footings. Wood beams approximately 10”-12” diameter are joined at the posts with half lap joints and pinned in place with rebar or logging spikes. Smaller poles around the perimeter lean against the beams. 24” wide earthbag walls with a reinforced geopolymer or concrete bond beam rest on rubble trench foundations.

Solar Pit House (click to enlarge)

Solar Pit House Section View (click to enlarge)

Complete drawings available at http://naturalbuildingblog.com/house-plans/free-house-plans/.
More information at our Natural Building Blog:
Solar Pit House Building Details
Evolution of the Pit House
Affordable, Superinsulated Cold Climate Homes

Note to other designers: I’d like to refine this design with input from other design professionals and make all drawings freely available on the Internet. Please email me at strawhouses [at] yahoo.com if you would like to contribute. Or just leave a comment here if you’re short on time.

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Oval Shop/Backyard Office

Oval Shop/Backyard Office

Specifications: 98 sq. ft. interior, Footprint: 11′ x 15′ as shown, but other sizes are possible

Description: Among other things, this oval earthbag structure can be used as a shop or office. As shown (1/2 floorplan), it is intended for sales of fruit drinks, sandwiches, etc. There is a door at each end and two 4′ pass-through counters to serve customers. The roof is rounded on the ends like the Polynesian Earthbag House. Note: this plan is now listed in the free shelter category.

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Earthbag Vaulted Guesthouse

Earthbag Vaulted Guesthouse

Specifications: 273 sq. ft. interior, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 16′ x 30′

Description: Designed to stay cool in hot climates, this Nubian vaulted guesthouse features a pole frame and thatched roof structure that shades the earthbag vault. Additional cooling is provided by breezes that blow across a lily pool. The upper part of the vault is traditional leaning adobe construction. A flagstone patio adds outdoor living space on the east side. Note: this plan is now listed in the free shelter category.

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