Codename's Experiment in Sustainable Living

[Codename Section]

I know Chloe bear will appreciate this cuz we're environmental buddies and maybe nic34

So I'm about to start building my upcycled home and will attach a solar panel set up, will use radiant heat and wood heat, geothermal for the groundwater (I think--might not), and will have greywater recycling.

My initial projects are:

Shipping container house--it's going to look mostly like this with more space between the containers.

http://grist.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/container_house_interior

but with a deck like this and in a wooded area

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0W60W9nqByo/UgwEm0KYEhI/AAAAAAACyHM/pOYOWwdZQwg/s1600/2+Shipping+Container+Home,+-+Savannah+Project,+Price+Street+Projects,+-+Florida,++(2).jpg


I'm going to also be planting a garden and bartering with my neighbor for meat.

I'm going to keep this thread and post pictures along the way. It may end up ugly as hell or it may look good. We'll see.

Also, Chloe is going to visit this summer (yes, you are) and help build it so she can put her environmental activism to the test. :)

[Alyosha]

It will be lovely. I want to see the spot you picked.

[Matty]

That looks very nice. I could do that. Wonder how it is plumbed? I read an article about this a few days ago. They are made out of high quality steel and will withstand storms.

[Codename Section]

That looks very nice. I could do that. Wonder how it is plumbed? I read an article about this a few days ago. They are made out of high quality steel and will withstand storms.

Same as any other. Just cut a hole and then insulate around it.

[donttread]

I know @Chloe (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=565) bear will appreciate this cuz we're environmental buddies and maybe @nic34 (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=572)

So I'm about to start building my upcycled home and will attach a solar panel set up, will use radiant heat and wood heat, geothermal for the groundwater (I think--might not), and will have greywater recycling.

My initial projects are:

Shipping container house--it's going to look mostly like this with more space between the containers.

http://grist.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/container_house_interior

but with a deck like this and in a wooded area

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0W60W9nqByo/UgwEm0KYEhI/AAAAAAACyHM/pOYOWwdZQwg/s1600/2+Shipping+Container+Home,+-+Savannah+Project,+Price+Street+Projects,+-+Florida,++(2).jpg


I'm going to also be planting a garden and bartering with my neighbor for meat.

I'm going to keep this thread and post pictures along the way. It may end up ugly as hell or it may look good. We'll see.

Also, @Chloe (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=565) is going to visit this summer (yes, you are) and help build it so she can put her environmental activism to the test. :)

Awesome

[countryboy]

I know @Chloe (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=565) bear will appreciate this cuz we're environmental buddies and maybe @nic34 (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=572)

So I'm about to start building my upcycled home and will attach a solar panel set up, will use radiant heat and wood heat, geothermal for the groundwater (I think--might not), and will have greywater recycling.

My initial projects are:

Shipping container house--it's going to look mostly like this with more space between the containers.

http://grist.files.wordpress.com/2011/06/container_house_interior

but with a deck like this and in a wooded area

http://3.bp.blogspot.com/-0W60W9nqByo/UgwEm0KYEhI/AAAAAAACyHM/pOYOWwdZQwg/s1600/2+Shipping+Container+Home,+-+Savannah+Project,+Price+Street+Projects,+-+Florida,++(2).jpg


I'm going to also be planting a garden and bartering with my neighbor for meat.

I'm going to keep this thread and post pictures along the way. It may end up ugly as hell or it may look good. We'll see.

Also, @Chloe (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=565) is going to visit this summer (yes, you are) and help build it so she can put her environmental activism to the test. :)
That's cool as heck. I will be watching with anticipation.

I want to build a storm/survival shelter out of one of those containers by burying it in the side of a hill. We are on a slab, and don't have a good place to shelter during storms. Plus, our house is at the base of a hill and not very defensible from a tactical standpoint. :wink:

[Codename Section]

I think I need a woman's touch on the design part. Mine would be more utilitarian.

[nic34]

That's fantastic code. I want to know what it costs ultimately. You could publish in architectural digest.

Think of a way to use running water for cooling. Have you thought of using a wood pellet stove for heat in addition to your wood fireplace? Won't you still be able to hunt in season?

Don't let me slow you down, get going'!!!

[Codename Section]

That's fantastic code. I want to know what it costs ultimately. You could publish in architectural digest.

Think of a way to use running water for cooling. Have you thought of using a wood pellet stove for heat in addition to your wood fireplace? Won't you still be able to hunt in season?

Don't let me slow you down, get going'!!!

You recommend the pellet stove?

Of course I hunt!

If I get one I'm going with used. I'm trying to make this as recycled as I can get. The goal is 80%. Wiring will have to be new, plumbing and septic, too, but I am going to surplus stores and recycling places for as much as I can.

[nic34]

My dad used the pellet stove thru north Texas winters. It cost less than the propane.

You'll also need one of these:

http://greenhomeguide.com/askapro/question/are-incinerating-toilets-really-an-option

My sis has a summer place in Alaska and she has one on propane. Just a thought....:grin:

[Codename Section]

My dad used the pellet stove thru north Texas winters. It cost less than the propane.

You'll also need one of these:

http://greenhomeguide.com/askapro/question/are-incinerating-toilets-really-an-option

My sis has a summer place in Alaska and she has one on propane. Just a thought....:grin:


I was going to go with the composting toilet, but I'll check this out.

[webrockk]

I'm an off-the-grid "tiny houser", and enjoy visiting this site for ideas: http://tinyhousetalk.com/

Disclaimer: My "tiny house" is a 37' triple slide out 5th wheel RV that I've (continue to) heavily remodeled to scrub it of that cheap "camper" feel. Nice, traditional home furniture, the "dinette" slash extra bed is gone...replaced with a beautiful cherry pub table and high back chairs...crown moulding...updated flooring.... updated kitchen counters...updated everything...and NO CHEEEZZZY WALLPAPER.

My only regret in making this move....is that I'd done it 25 years ago instead of 5.

(If I can locate some for a decent price, a few solar panels will be installed on my updated roof system)

[Codename Section]

I'm an off-the-grid "tiny houser", and enjoy visiting this site for ideas: http://tinyhousetalk.com/

Disclaimer: My "tiny house" is a 37' triple slide out 5th wheel RV that I've (continue to) heavily remodeled to scrub it of that cheap "camper" feel. Nice, traditional home furniture, the "dinette" slash extra bed is gone...replaced with a beautiful cherry pub table and high back chairs...crown moulding...updated flooring updated kitchen counters...updated everything...and NO CHEEEZZZY WALLPAPER.

My only regret in making this move....is that I'd done it 25 years ago instead of 5.


I don't see the need for all the space. It's a waste. More to clean, more room to gather stuff I don't need. I am going to build a two bedroom just in case, but beyond that I think a house this size can handle everything I require.

I don't like waste. I have champagne money now but beer tastes. I guess that's a good thing.

[webrockk]

I don't see the need for all the space. It's a waste. More to clean, more room to gather stuff I don't need. I am going to build a two bedroom just in case, but beyond that I think a house this size can handle everything I require.

I don't like waste. I have champagne money now but beer tastes. I guess that's a good thing.

Honestly, I don't need or want a lot of space. It's just me here...oh, and Nubbykitty, my tailless tuxedo cat...and as someone who likely suffers from a mild case of OCD and (pretty severe) anal retentiveness, "compartmentalizing" and keeping tidy is much easier with this living arrangement. Not to mention the expenses. I'm not saddled with spending the lionshare of my earnings on shelter, which is extremely liberating....as well, the ease in simply picking up and moving to new environs. not that I'd want to....as I live at the head of a beautiful spring feed river (Wacissa)

[Codename Section]

I could live like Eustace Conway if it were up to me. I'd be some mountainman hunting and trapping.

[Peter1469]

How long to get it completed? Can I drop by and check it out?

[Spectre]

Sounds like a fun hobby.

And good practice for when that EMP attack hits!

[The Wash]

How long to get it completed? Can I drop by and check it out?

Check it out? You think he's really building this on his own? My ass is going to be helping and yours too. Trust.

[Chris]

OK, so I was just at the gas station and they use a shipping container to store stuff they sell inside. My question is how do you go about using one? Are they bolted together so you can remove a side, or welded together so you have to take a torch to cut away? I'm guessing the latter.

[Peter1469]

Check it out? You think he's really building this on his own? My ass is going to be helping and yours too. Trust.

I can work. Strong back. Weak mind.

[Dark Mistress]

I'm an off-the-grid "tiny houser", and enjoy visiting this site for ideas: http://tinyhousetalk.com/

Disclaimer: My "tiny house" is a 37' triple slide out 5th wheel RV that I've (continue to) heavily remodeled to scrub it of that cheap "camper" feel. Nice, traditional home furniture, the "dinette" slash extra bed is gone...replaced with a beautiful cherry pub table and high back chairs...crown moulding...updated flooring.... updated kitchen counters...updated everything...and NO CHEEEZZZY WALLPAPER.

My only regret in making this move....is that I'd done it 25 years ago instead of 5.

(If I can locate some for a decent price, a few solar panels will be installed on my updated roof system)'
Cthulhu and I have been interested in these kinds of homes for awhile. But there is a problem-it is not realistic for us because we have (4) kids. We have lived in teeny tiny apts with 2 kids and seriously, they need space to play. I am a fan of 'space.' Someday my kids will grow up and have their own kids and I want them to come stay with us when they can. My parents had a huge home; my mom grew up in a mansion. I guess I am just a bit snobbish when it comes to "space" and "square footage." I like to sew-I need a sewing/crafting room. I need at least two rooms for my 2 boys/ 2 girls. Plus, we want a few more kids in 4-5 years. It is way nice to have both a "family room" and "living room." A room for the adults and a room for the kids when we get together with friends/family. But then again I am a housekeeper/stay at home mom. I spend most of my life cleaning.

[Codename Section]

Dark Mistress

they are expandable

http://i1-news.softpedia-static.com/images/news-700/Shipping-Containers-Make-Great-Homes-for-Green-Heads.jpg

[Peter1469]

That is what I want. I am alone now, but that isn't likely going to last. :smiley:

Of course mine would have to be zombie proof. Large fence.

[Newpublius]

That is what I want. I am alone now, but that isn't likely going to last. :smiley:

Of course mine would have to be zombie proof. Large fence.

fiancée will do that. Wait until the babies start arriving and all of a sudden she starts wanting an I laws suite.

[Peter1469]

fiancée will do that. Wait until the babies start arriving and all of a sudden she starts wanting an I laws suite.

I am to old for that stuff.

[Common Sense]

I like this courtyard version...

http://images-2.domain.com.au/2011/02/16/2187976/12-container-house_600-600x400.jpg

This one is cleverly disguised...

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hrCsnH6H3Q/TaPmFM-wr-I/AAAAAAAALhM/XWQJacY8e1M/s1600/500x_c13.jpg

[Cthulhu]

That is what I want. I am alone now, but that isn't likely going to last. :smiley:

Of course mine would have to be zombie proof. Large fence.

I approve, zombie bunker or bust.

[Cthulhu]

'
@Cthulhu (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=872) and I have been interested in these kinds of homes for awhile. But there is a problem-it is not realistic for us because we have (4) kids. We have lived in teeny tiny apts with 2 kids and seriously, they need space to play. I am a fan of 'space.' Someday my kids will grow up and have their own kids and I want them to come stay with us when they can. My parents had a huge home; my mom grew up in a mansion. I guess I am just a bit snobbish when it comes to "space" and "square footage." I like to sew-I need a sewing/crafting room. I need at least two rooms for my 2 boys/ 2 girls. Plus, we want a few more kids in 4-5 years. It is way nice to have both a "family room" and "living room." A room for the adults and a room for the kids when we get together with friends/family. But then again I am a housekeeper/stay at home mom. I spend most of my life cleaning.

Easy enough, just link another storage container to the chain when we need more room. Insulate as needed.

[Dark Mistress]

Easy enough, just link another storage container to the chain when we need more room. Insulate as needed.

Only the best for your woman.

[webrockk]

'
@Cthulhu (http://thepoliticalforums.com/member.php?u=872) and I have been interested in these kinds of homes for awhile. But there is a problem-it is not realistic for us because we have (4) kids. We have lived in teeny tiny apts with 2 kids and seriously, they need space to play. I am a fan of 'space.' Someday my kids will grow up and have their own kids and I want them to come stay with us when they can. My parents had a huge home; my mom grew up in a mansion. I guess I am just a bit snobbish when it comes to "space" and "square footage." I like to sew-I need a sewing/crafting room. I need at least two rooms for my 2 boys/ 2 girls. Plus, we want a few more kids in 4-5 years. It is way nice to have both a "family room" and "living room." A room for the adults and a room for the kids when we get together with friends/family. But then again I am a housekeeper/stay at home mom. I spend most of my life cleaning.

It's not suitable for a large family. I get more than a little anxious when my 17 year old son visits for a week or so. But we spend a lot of time on the river, so it's not too bad.

I don't think I could ever ask my hypothetical large family.....(or even another person)....to adopt my preferred lifestyle.

You could both put together an expandable plan for when you're Empty Nesters, though.

[Peter1469]

I like this courtyard version...

http://images-2.domain.com.au/2011/02/16/2187976/12-container-house_600-600x400.jpg

This one is cleverly disguised...

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hrCsnH6H3Q/TaPmFM-wr-I/AAAAAAAALhM/XWQJacY8e1M/s1600/500x_c13.jpg

That I like, although I would set it up differently.

[webrockk]

I like this courtyard version...

http://images-2.domain.com.au/2011/02/16/2187976/12-container-house_600-600x400.jpg

This one is cleverly disguised...

http://4.bp.blogspot.com/-1hrCsnH6H3Q/TaPmFM-wr-I/AAAAAAAALhM/XWQJacY8e1M/s1600/500x_c13.jpg

Love the courtyard! A number of years ago....when two part expanding foam insulation first hit the commercial market...I wanted to erect a smaller Baldwin steel building on a piece of dirt I owned and "spray form" the inside to look like a cave...then "sculpt out" cubbies for electronics, books, closets, etc.

I've always been a fan of unconventional housing.

I also had big plans for a big grain silo that an employer was going raze and sell for scrap. I was a teenager then, and Dad said "no" :)

[Heyduke]

I like the concept. You're starting with stackable sturdy steel Legos, basically.

Some of those expansive ones seem like they'd be drafty in the winter, even in California.

If you're in a wooded area, just go with the wood stove. Most second growth forests are too thick and need to be thinned a bit anyway. Pellets you have to buy at the store.

I lived in a yurt for 4 years. It was on a deck, with a wood stove on a riverstone hearth. I wonder what the price difference would be vs a cargo container house. You can get a 24 foot new Yurt shipped to you for a bit more than $8,000.

advantages of cargo home; upcycled materials, strength, zombie defense
advantages of yurt; easy assembly, portable, price?
http://tinyhouselistings.com/wp-content/uploads/2011/11/8988dca7cf4d4e5397b13bf22f718325-640X480.jpg

[Codename Section]

I looked into Yurts, as well. It's still an option.