The Empowerment Manual: A Guide for Collaborative Groups Paperback - 2011

The popularity of natural building has grown by leaps and bounds, spurred by a grassroots desire for housing that is healthy, affordable and environmentally responsible. While there are many books available on specific methods such as straw bale construction, cob or timber framing, few other resources introduce the reader to the entire scope of this burgeoning field.

Fully revised and updated, The Art of Natural Building is the complete and user-friendly introduction to natural building for everyone from do-it-yourselfers to architects and designers. This collection of articles from over 50 leaders in the field is now stunningly illustrated with over 200 full-color photos of natural buildings from around the world. Learn about:

• The case for building with natural materials, from the perspectives of sustainability, lifestyle and health
• What you need to know to plan and design your own beautiful and efficient natural home
• Explanations of thirty versatile materials and techniques, with resources on where to go for further information on each
• How these techniques are being used to address housing crises around the world.

Clearly written, logically organized and beautifully illustrated The Art of Natural Building is the encyclopedia of natural building.

Joseph F. Kennedy is a designer, builder, writer, artist and educator and cofounder of Builders Without Borders . Michael G. Smith is a respected workshop instructor, consultant, and co-author of the best-selling book The Hand-Sculpted House . Catherine Wanek is a cofounder of Builders Without Borders and author/photographer of The Hybrid House and The New Straw Bale Home .