Stoneview is an octagonal, cordwood masonry timber-framed guesthouse
with a living roof located in upstate New York, fully constructed and
finished for just $6,000.
In response to the enormous interest in this unique little home, author
and builder Rob Roy has written Stoneview.
Over 130 clear line drawings and step-by-step images provide the reader
with all the information needed to build this three hundred-square-foot
cabin from start to finish, and a full-color section shows off the
beautiful design features of this charming "green" cabin. All design
considerations are covered, as well as an interesting and thorough
discussion of the geometry of the octagon.
Separate chapters are devoted to:
- Site preparation
- Forming and pouring the slab
- Timber framing
- The lightweight living roof
- The cordwood masonry walls
Full instructions for the interior floor and wall finishing are
included, as well as a basic plumbing system featuring the "humanure"
composting toilet system. Stoneview concludes with a performance
evaluation of the building and a complete costing analysis. Best of all,
the house is appropriate for any climate.
This latest book by Rob Roy will appeal to his many followers, as well
as those new to alternative buildings. Instructions are designed for
both experienced and novice builders.
Rob Roy and his wife Jaki started the Earthwood Building School in
1981. Earthwood specializes in alternative building methods such as
cordwood masonry and earth-sheltered housing. Roy is the author of
twelve books, including Earth-Sheltered Houses, Timber Framing for
the Rest of Us, and Cordwood Building (New Society Publishers).
