“The most important outcome of a design is that the occupants enjoy being in their spaces.”
— The Barefoot Architect. Praise for The Barefoot Architect
“[The Barefoot Architect] is really about simplicity and the beauty of indigenous building, reinforcing the benefits of basic design and simple materials. It is very much an instructive work, with over 1,200 straightforward line drawings and uncomp
licated explanations meant for people who simply want to get a job done and a cozy roof over their heads. Don’t look for stunning photography—there is none. What is inside, however, includes the things that, as an elementary builder, you’ll need to know about climate, site design, natural building techniques, foundation-to-roof construction, solar and biomass heating and ventilation, water purification and management, and composting sanitary systems. The methods addressed are a combination of tradition and modern techniques.”’
— BackHome Magazine
“Although geared towards the southern latitudes (with passive solar gain coming from the North, for example), the book contains a wealth of information about natural materials, passive design strategies, and design for several different climates.”
— BuildingGreen.com
“After my wife and I had finished writing The Straw Bale House and were beginning work in Mexico on a number of projects, we came across this book during our travels. We loved it so much we set out trying to find out where we could get more copies. The search took us to a bookstore in Mexico City where we bought several cases to bring back to the States. They were so popular with friends that we gave away/sold all of them in almost no time at all. It's just a marvelous little book with simple but very clear illustrations.”
— Bill Steen, author of The Straw Bale House
