Castle Tower House

Castle Tower House (click to enlarge)

The Castle Tower House is largely the same plan as the 2-story Roundhouse Above Survival Shelter with a crenellated roof design. In the earthbag castle I’m currently designing it’s used as a corner ‘watch tower’. Its primary function in ‘peace time’ is a guesthouse or office. Compare this version to the original plan to see how a few minor changes can make a lot of difference in appearance.

Specifications: 20’ DIA roundhouse, 314 sq. ft. interior first floor, 252 sq. ft. interior loft, 314 sq. ft. interior survival shelter plus pantry), 880 total square foot interior, Footprint: 23′ DIA, 23′ x 31′ survival shelter

Description: Every castle worth its name has to have at least one underground survival shelter. In this case it’s underneath the Tower House. It’s prudent to have a safe place to go to in case of emergencies, and what better place than your basement. Hurricanes, tornadoes, blizzards and other natural disasters are all too common. While others panic and run for last minute preparations, you can calmly retreat to your basement (through a hidden trap door) that’s wisely stocked with everything you need to ride out the disaster.

More details on the Earthbag Survival Shelter that’s also sold separately (an excellent starter project and one of my most popular designs).

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Earthbag Survival Shelter

Earthbag Survival Shelter (click to enlarge)

Specifications: 20’ DIA (314 sq. ft. interior plus pantry), Footprint: 23′ x 31′

Description: This round earthbag shelter for up to 4-5 individuals is designed for survival through disaster, plague, etc. It is low cost, durable and practical. This shelter is designed for DIYers on a tight budget who will do most everything by hand. Instructions include numerous key details not evident on the plan: venting, roof framing, how to reduce excavation by 50%, drainage, water supply, etc. I have not seen a better, more practical survival shelter plan.

Earthbag Survival Shelter

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Economizer Earthbag House

Economizer Earthbag House

Specifications: 432 sq. ft. interior, 1 bedroom, 1 bath, Footprint: 19′ x 30′

Description: This plan is designed to be compact and efficient. Most houses this size do not have as many features — washer/dryer, wood stove, and modern kitchen and bath. An archway separates the bedroom from the main living area, yet maintains a sense of privacy with a room divider. Note: this plan is now listed in the free shelter category.

Economizer Earthbag House East Elevation

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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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