4 out of 5 stars.
I would like to thank Schiffer Publishing Ltd. for allowing me to read an ARC of this book via Netgalley for an open and honest review.
What an inspiring book! I’m not usually someone who likes modern builds and modern designs but I loved this book. I would love to build my own home to the standards shown in this book, especially those shown in chapter five as a rammed earth or hay bale home has been a dream of mine for years.
Now I know the standards set in Australia are slightly different than those set in the USA – and shown in this book – but I still drew a lot of inspiration from the innovation displayed.
The pictures were clear, crisp and well documented and I did groan in envy over a few of those kitchens too. There are some very beautiful “clean green” homes out there and some very lucky people living in them.
I really appreciated the glossary in the back as there were a couple of terms I wasn’t too sure on and it cleared them up for me.
All in all it really is wonderful book for anyone wanting to seek ideas on how to build a better, more economical and environmentally friendly home. Yes the initial outlay for some of the features can be high, but when you look at the cost over time – as well as the lower impact you have on the planet – I’m amazed that only a few people seem to be seeking to build such marvels.
Would I recommend this book to others? Yes I would, but only if they were looking to build or renovate their own homes right now. Even if they hadn’t thought about doing it in a “greener” manner, I would suggest this book in the hopes it would change their mind.
Would I buy this book for myself? I am very tempted to do so, however I’m not yet at a time in my life that I can make the needed renovations or build this book brings to your attention. Though I would look out for its, no doubt, newer edition when I do reach that point in my life.
Some may see this as just another “coffee table” book but it’s not. It’s a tome of knowledge that I hope will encourage and inspire people to seek a better way of building and renovating their homes.
Until next time,
Janis. XXOO
Janis's Journal 