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Secrets Of Natural Building In Taos, New Mexico

Published:

by Lucky Garber

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Have you ever wondered what makes natural building in Taos, New Mexico so special? This unique town is famous for its stunning landscapes and rich cultural history. But there's more to Taos than meets the eye. The community here has embraced natural building techniques that blend seamlessly with the environment. From adobe homes to straw bale structures, these methods not only look beautiful but also offer sustainable living solutions. Imagine living in a house that stays cool in the summer and warm in the winter, all while reducing your carbon footprint. Intrigued? Let's dive into the secrets behind these amazing natural buildings in Taos.

Secrets of Natural Building in Taos, New Mexico

Taos, New Mexico, is a haven for those interested in natural building techniques. This small town is rich in history and culture, making it the perfect place to learn about sustainable living. Here are some of the best spots to explore the secrets of natural building in Taos.

Earthships: Sustainable Living at its Best

Earthships are self-sustaining homes made from natural and recycled materials. They are designed to be off-grid, using solar and wind power for energy. Taos is home to the Earthship Biotecture community, where you can see these innovative homes in action.

  1. Earthship Biotecture Visitor Center

    • Located just outside Taos, this center offers tours of various Earthship models. Learn about their construction, water harvesting, and energy systems.

  2. Greater World Earthship Community

    • This community showcases a variety of Earthship homes. Walk around and see how residents live sustainably.

Adobe: Traditional Building Techniques

Adobe is a traditional building material made from earth and organic materials. It has been used for centuries in the Southwest. Taos offers several places to see adobe construction up close.

  1. Taos Pueblo

    • This UNESCO World Heritage site features multi-story adobe buildings that have been continuously inhabited for over 1,000 years. Guided tours provide insights into traditional construction methods.

  2. San Francisco de Asis Mission Church

    • Located in Ranchos de Taos, this historic church is a stunning example of adobe architecture. The thick walls and unique design make it a must-see.

Straw Bale Construction: Modern Meets Traditional

Straw bale construction is a modern take on natural building. It uses straw bales as insulation, creating energy-efficient and environmentally friendly homes. Taos has several examples of this technique.

  1. Taos County Economic Development Corporation (TCEDC)

    • This organization promotes sustainable building practices, including straw bale construction. They offer workshops and tours of their facilities.

  2. Strawbale Futures

    • A local company specializing in straw bale construction. They offer consultations and tours of their projects around Taos.

Cob: Sculpting with Earth

Cob is a natural building material made from subsoil, water, fibrous organic material, and sometimes lime. It is sculpted by hand, allowing for creative and unique designs. Taos has embraced this ancient technique.

  1. Cob Cottage Company

    • This company offers workshops and tours of cob buildings. Learn how to mix and sculpt cob to create beautiful, sustainable homes.

  2. The Lama Foundation

    • A spiritual community that uses cob construction for many of its buildings. They offer tours and workshops on natural building techniques.

Rammed Earth: Durable and Sustainable

Rammed earth is a technique that involves compacting a mixture of earth, sand, and sometimes cement into forms to create solid walls. It is known for its durability and thermal mass properties. Taos has several examples of rammed earth construction.

  1. Taos Mesa Brewing

    • This brewery features a rammed earth building that showcases the beauty and functionality of this technique. Enjoy a drink while admiring the craftsmanship.

  2. Rammed Earth Solar Homes

    • A local company specializing in rammed earth construction. They offer tours of their projects, highlighting the benefits of this sustainable building method.

Embracing Taos' Natural Building Techniques

Taos, New Mexico, offers a unique blend of natural building techniques that connect deeply with the environment. From adobe homes to earthships, these methods showcase sustainable living. Visiting Taos provides a firsthand look at how local materials and traditional methods create beautiful, eco-friendly structures.

Exploring these buildings, you’ll see the benefits of energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. The community's commitment to preserving these techniques ensures they remain a vital part of Taos' identity.

Whether you're a sustainability enthusiast or just curious, Taos' natural building scene is inspiring. It’s a reminder that innovative, eco-friendly living is possible and practical. So, next time you think about sustainable architecture, remember the lessons from Taos. They might just inspire your next project.