Natural building, often referred to as “green building” or “sustainable building,” is an approach that prioritizes sustainability by using local, renewable, non-toxic resources and minimizing waste.

The philosophy behind Natural Building is to create healthier homes for occupants and minimize the environmental impact by repurposing what nature provides and carving out a home that is as beautiful as it is functional.

The materials used in Natural Building can vary depending on the location and available resources. 

Common materials include straw bales, cob, timber, earthbags, adobe, natural plasters, and salvaged and recycled materials.

With all the exciting possibilities at your disposal, we wanted to highlight some of the resources, materials, and techniques most commonly used in Green Building.

Choosing the Right Materials

When building a natural, sustainable home in Michigan, the materials used for building depends on several factors. 

The elements to consider are local climate, soil type, and materials that provide good insulation against the cold and also allow for adequate ventilation during the warmer months.

For example, Washtenaw County has a humid continental climate, with cold winters and warm summers. 

Straw bale construction is particularly well-suited to Michigan's climate as it provides excellent insulation against the cold winters. 

Cob construction, which uses a mixture of clay, sand, and straw, is also a viable option for Michigan homes.

Materials to use for building a sustainable home in Washtenaw County include:

Straw bales: These provide excellent insulation and are readily available in Michigan. The bales are used to construct walls and are finished with a natural plaster made from clay or lime.

Timber: Locally-sourced timber is used for framing and structural support. Michigan has an abundance of Oak, Pine, Cedar, and Douglas Fir, all of which are excellent choices.

Clay: Michigan has abundant clay deposits, which can be used to create cob or adobe walls.

Recycled materials: Salvaged or reclaimed materials like wood, metal, and glass can create unique and sustainable design features. These are a few ideas we love:

• Reclaimed wood: Old barn wood, reclaimed lumber, or salvaged wood from demolished buildings can be used for flooring, cabinetry, and decorative accents.

• Recycled glass: Crushed or melted glass can be used for countertops, backsplashes, and decorative features.

• Recycled metal: Scrap metal can be used for roofing, siding, and structural elements.

• Recycled plastic: Plastic bottles, bags, and containers can create insulation or building blocks for walls.

• Newspaper and cardboard: These materials can be used as insulation between walls or as filler material in construction.

• Shipping containers: Old shipping containers can be converted into homes, providing a unique and sustainable housing option.

• Salvaged bricks and concrete: Old bricks and concrete can be used for walkways, patios, and retaining walls.

Location, Location, Location

Michigan is a state like no other. 

From the Great Lakes to the Upper Peninsula wilderness to the rolling hills and forests in the lower half of the mitten, it offers a diverse natural atmosphere worth celebrating.

How you organize and orient elements of your home can either work with or against these natural features. 

With that in mind, we recommend the following:

• A south-facing site with good solar exposure is optimal to take advantage of the daily and seasonal movement of the sun to heat and cool in the proper seasons passively

• Natural windbreaks or shelter that help to protect the home from harsh winter winds

• Easy access to water or a rain collection system for irrigation and other household needs 

Integrating Your Home with the Landscape

To take your green home to the next level, consider integrating your home with the landscape.

Using natural features provided by the land to your advantage, your home can be built in perfect harmony with the world around it.

Techniques like earth-sheltered construction, where the natural compound of the site is used to insulate a structure, maybe a great option in certain parts of the state. 

Rock and stone can be used for retaining walls or even as a foundational base.

Plant a garden in a swale to collect stormwater to promote healthy plant growth.

Even incorporating elements like waterfalls and native plants in the design can help preserve Michigan’s natural beauty and elevate your living experience. 

With the abundance of natural resources at your disposal in Michigan, the possibilities are endless for building a sustainable and beautiful natural home.

Designing Your Home with Function in Mind

Natural building isn't just about making something visually appealing -- it's also about creating an efficient space that reflects your lifestyle. 

There are many ways to integrate sustainable design features into your natural home. 

Popular techniques include:

• A green roof or living wall: Planting vegetation on the home's roof or exterior walls can help reduce heat gain and provide insulation.

• Natural ventilation: Incorporating operable windows and vents can promote airflow and reduce the need for mechanical ventilation systems.

• Energy-efficient appliances and lighting: Using energy-efficient appliances and LED lighting can help to reduce energy consumption and lower utility bills.

• Solar panels or wind turbines: Incorporating renewable energy sources like solar panels or wind turbines can help to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and lower energy costs.

Conclusion

As one of the most outstanding natural habitats in the United States, Michigan offers a unique opportunity for green building. 

Natural homes are gaining traction because of their durability, low operational costs, and emotional appeal. 

It's worth noting that building codes can vary by state and locality, so it's essential to consult with local authorities and building professionals to ensure that any Natural Building project complies with local regulations.