My Journey to Self-Sustainability: Building an Off-Grid House and Workshop

TLDRJoin me on my journey as I transform 18.5 acres of agricultural land into a sustainable off-grid smallholding. I built an off-grid house using round wood and cordwood walls, powered by solar and hydroelectric energy. I also constructed a two-story workshop for woodworking and metalworking. Witness the progress and the improvements in my well-being and abilities.

Key insights

✨Transforming agricultural land into a sustainable off-grid smallholding

🌱Building an off-grid house with round wood and cordwood walls

🔌Powering the house and workshop with solar and hydroelectric energy

🔨Constructing a two-story workshop for woodworking and metalworking

🌳Improving well-being and abilities through self-sustainability

Q&A

How long did it take you to build the off-grid house?

—It took me approximately one year to build the off-grid house, while working and commuting from London.

What materials did you use to construct the house?

—The house was built using round wood for the frame, cordwood walls, and a turf roof. The wood was mostly free, and other materials included clay and straw for the binder between the logs.

How much did it cost to build the house?

—The entire building cost was approximately £3,000, as I used mostly free or recycled materials. This low cost was essential as I had limited funds at the time.

What is the power source for the house and workshop?

—The house and workshop are powered by solar and hydroelectric energy. Solar panels provide power during the summer, while hydroelectric turbines generate power for seven months of the year.

How has this self-sustainable lifestyle improved your well-being?

—Living in a self-sustainable environment has greatly improved my well-being. My mental health, physical health, and abilities have increased since building the house and workshop.