Gabor Lukacs of Amherst, MA believes we can go beyond sustainability to a place of “resilience.” Part of Lukacs response to the effects of global problems relating to the...

Rammed earth, an ancient construction technique, uses soil, sand, and sometimes a little Portland cement, compressed into forms to create thick, solid, and often beautiful structural...

Hemp is a strong fiberous plant that is grown predominantly in China, but also in many other parts of the world. Environmentally friendly, hemp requires few pesticides or herbicides...

Along with solar panels, so called “green” bamboo floors are another stereotypical material that people latch onto when thinking about green homes. In the same way that those solar...

Saltillo tile is very popular for flooring in Mexico and the southwestern United States. While it can be used in other areas, it also has its limitations. Here is a short guide to the...

Whether framing a new addition, building a deck or making a piece of furniture, wood is often the go-to material. Lumber, plywood and other products made with sustainably harvested...

Cane and rattan have long been popular materials in furniture making. In the United States, rattan and cane furniture became popular during the 19th century as a lighter and less...

Hemp is an eco-friendly and durable alternative to plywood, drywall and other building materials. However, don’t expect to find hemp products alongside pine two-by-fours and gypsum...