I have recently given several talks around Britain about how we can encourage the building of more low impact communities. I have collated the talks into a short report on the topic, available here as a PDF: Low impact communities in Britain. The report identifies three key types of barrier to low impact communities: political, economic and … Continue reading NEW REPORT: Low Impact Communities in Britain
Permaculture and eco-building
The philosophy of permaculture is a useful framework through which to understand the broader principles behind many eco-houses. There is a synergy between eco-building and permaculture in that they are both design systems which at heart seek to interconnect the processes of life and create more sustainable systems. They are both based upon understanding and creating … Continue reading Permaculture and eco-building
Defining, teaching and thinking about eco-housing
Today I taught a seminar about whether, and how, we can conceive of eco-housing as a utopia. It is part of a master’s programme that I teach on Social Change and Resistance. It was by far the most useful hour of my day because there were four bright and intelligent students with whom to discuss … Continue reading Defining, teaching and thinking about eco-housing
Rethinking design: Pattern Language
Alexander et al. (1977) Pattern Language: Towns, Buildings, Construction. Oxford University Press, New York, pp.1171. Pattern Language is a way in which to approach architectural design and town planning to maximise the enjoyment and use of the space for people. It is about ensuring that design is for people rather than just to look good. … Continue reading Rethinking design: Pattern Language
Useful books
There are a large number of books about eco-building, eco-living and eco-communities, but far fewer which deal with issues of affordability as well as sustainability. A few I have come across recently are: Liddell, H (2008) Eco-minimalism: the antidote to eco-bling. RIBA Publishing, London A great book which argues that careful integrated ecological design is … Continue reading Useful books
ECO-HOMES + COMMUNITIES 