So I have moved again... for what now appears to be the second to last time.

I am building my first house... in the meantime renting nearby the build site.

I still have not broken ground, but after re-deciding the site 3 times, I think it's finally settled: about 50 feet below the ridge line, on the southeast side.

The main plan is to make it as environmentally un-impact-ful as possible. Fully half of the roof and approximately half of the house will be underground. The exposed external and internal structure will be based on a timber frame. The rock work will be limited to only as many rocks as are harvested from the site. The split rail fence will be limited to only the timber felled from the site.



The energy issue is still in debate, but generally, as much as I can afford.

Being atop a mountain, the solar panels will never get full capacity. So, I am leaning towards a minimal amount on the side of the house with the best view of the sun... and the (reflections at) gazebo in the pond.

A small windmill is still under serious consideration. The main concern is the winds atop a mountain are often near-hurricane levels... and in the past have been known to shred many a windmill. The other concern is that even the smallest windmill would still provide far more power than needed. (selling back to the grid sounds like a headache)

There are a mass of natural springs on the property... water could be the best source. But it may involve right of way issues. How do you convince someone that re-routing and harnessing water can be good for them?

Selling back to the grid is probably what you have to do, otherwise you will need like 2 million dollars worth of batteries and converters and stuff.

I moved in Feb, it sucked truck loads of ass. Life is finally settling down again though. How's the rest of life treating you toys?

uuuh pics???

I think I mod this forum, I think toys blog should be called "Money Shot".
I think that would be funny.

Hey Toys, Have you got rich without telling us? that sounds like its going to cost a fair bit. seriously tho, good luck I'm fascininated with self build and wish I had the means. One day may be.
Here in the UK we have a TV show called 'Grand designs' which I love. All about self builds and 'eco-friendly' projects like your own. I had a quick look on uTorrent and there a few torrents on there for the show. You should check them out, it might be useful.
Good luck and keep us posted.

The housing market in the US is all but fuct at the moment.
Yeah, good luck toys. I don't mean that as a dig or anything, just do your homework and stay out of trouble.

It just occurred to me that I called a 'Television programme' A 'TV show'.
WTF is wrong with me. I apologise. X

I'd be ready to build a sod house on the prarie if I were starting over.

I think that Master Money Shot sound official.