A couple of weeks ago I posted a review of Off the Grid Homes. I recently received a copy of another book by Lori Ryker, Off The Grid Modern Homes + Alternative Energy, and it’s just as good, but in a different way.
Off the Grid Homes was like delicious but useful eye candy for green home lovers. This second book, Off the Grid offers a more in-depth look at home case studies. Don’t think you won’t see yummy homes in this one though; there are plenty of beautiful images to delight your eyes.
Pros:
- The thing I liked best about Off the Grid was the surprising variety of projects Ryker looks at, such as a bungalow remodel, rural house on a pond, a lovely grassland homestead, and more. 10 projects in all, and each stunningly unique with the off grid component in place. No matter what your idea of off grid living is, this book will allow you to consider different possibilities.
- There’s a great projects at a glance section at the end of the book. Something I think too many green home books lack. Lately, I’ve been seeing this trait enacted more and more (thankfully) because when you do have an idea in your head, such as I’d like to see how a home that uses solar, wind, and gray water might work out, you can find it quickly with a project glance page.
- Each off grid project chapter also has a quick guide at the start. For example, home size, energy use, and materials, among other things is covered.
- The images – beautiful! There’s a nice combo of photography and diagrams. While I’m a sucker for house images; diagrams serve a way useful position, in that they allow you a look at the inner workings of say, a home ventilation system or how a geothermal cooling and heating system works.
Cons:
As with Off the Grid Homes, I honestly could not find any cons. If you’re interested in off grid living, green homes, or simply beautiful architecture, both books belong in your collection. Check Off the Grid out at your library first if you like, but I’m betting that you’ll want to own this one.
by Lori Ryker.
