In a Nutshell

I’ll likely elaborate in more detail about these philosophies later but for now here are some of the ideas that have guided the creation of our home.

A home:

·         that focuses on meeting our needs not material greed (Mahatma Ghandi’s concept of “passive violence” is a favorite source of inspiration here)

·         that is no larger than we could build with our own two hands (not even a crane required!)

·        that the boys can have a real, involved, part in building

·         that we will know intimately and feel apart of our whole lives (the memories we will have!)

·         that will be a creative project that and reflect our personal tastes

·         that is self-reliant in construction and maintenance costs (I mean if you built it you probably won’t ever need to call in an electrician or plumber…)

·         that encourages us to keep only what we most need and value

·         off-grid

·         we can pay for in cash, and break up into parts if required

·         just over 1,000 sq ft. so the project will not involve years and years of our lives or be left unfinished

·         whose space will used to accommodate the way we live and want to live as a family

·         that has a strong connection to nature and encourages us to work and play outside

·         that uses local, indigenous materials

·         made with hardwearing, natural materials that will be low maintenance, age gracefully and largely crumble back into mother earth at the end of its long life (of course building codes require vapour barrier, etc. that will not decompose)

·         of classic and human proportions that are visually pleasing, and simple from the roof pitch to the divided lite muntins

·         with a “sheltering roof” with a loft space carved right under the roof rafters

·         be true to the historical houses built here by early pioneers

·         that harmonizes and blends into with the natural surroundings so you see mountains, prairies, and sky before our house

·         that includes timber framing which the three oldest boys, Matt, and I have fallen hard for (this home will also incorporate stick-built techniques for practical and economic reasons)

·         that has been designed and will be built from personal revelation from the Master Builder and Architect- the Lord (there has been a LOT of prayer with lots more to come, this whole project is teaching us to lean on Him more)

·         will develop our character, it is certainly requiring humility, persistence, and hard work for starters

This is going to be a little house that gives a lot to our family.