A Natural Building Approach to Sustainable Development
Kevin V. Connors
Abstract:
Natural Building evolved from the "back to the Earth" movement of the 1960's and 70's. It embraced all
forms of experimental, recycled, and low impact materials and systems. Through the tradition of the
"Alternative Building Colloquium," there has been a highly productive process of technology sharing.
This resulted in numerous codified practices of, for example, Straw Bale Construction. Institutions have
emerged to engage in dialog around issues of "appropriate technology" and to conduct research into the
performance characteristics of natural building technologies. The rise of the discipline of Building
Science has reinvigorated the practice of Natural Building, overlaying the critical dimension of building
performance. It is recognized as an ultra-low impact method of building, relying largely on local natural
materials and indigenous techniques.
In this century, we will witness the radical transformation of society, away from a strictly consumer
economy, to one of closed loops and local resources. Natural Building is a viable alternative for many
mainstream projects, especially residential and community facilities, where community building and
building community are essential values. Material culture is the physical milieu that reflects the values
of society - it both makes and is made by the society. Natural Building is a radically modest means of
making buildings and shelter. It is a tradition that offers a new way to approach development that is
empowering, sustainable and creative.
This presentation will provide an overview of Natural Building traditions, values, materials and systems,
institutions and resources that will enable attendees to make an appropriate choice of Natural Building
for their next project.
Bio:
Kevin V. Connors
Kevin V. Connors, PE, AIA, LEED AP, is Principal of eco_logic STUDIO, architecture & engineering, PLLC, a
design firm dedicated to ecological architecture, engineering and planning. Kevin is both an engineer
and an architect and taught design and sustainable architecture in the SUNY Buffalo Department of
Architecture 1998 to 2008. His design/build students created the first permitted strawbale building in
the City of Buffalo. He has been Consulting Architect for the Natural Building Colloquium – East in Bath,
NY from 2004 to 1011, and is a member of Natural Builders North East and the Natural Building
Network. He has over 33 years of professional experience.