The Guest House is the newest demonstration of combined alternative building methods.

Preston Bell, our teacher, enjoys using different methods—cob, straw bale, light clay, and earthen bags—all in the same building.

We built an earth bag wall during a workshop in September 2003 and then did a Living Roof Workshop in December 2003. The earthen bag wall was attached to an existing Straw bale entrance wall, and then we added a light clay wall.

It will have a round door and space for two round windows. The windows and doors have yet to be added. We will also construct a staircase to the Living Roof, which has a park bench on top for a wonderful panoramic view of the mountains.

Preston Bell took the lead on the Guest House and Michael Leach did a lot of preparation work on the roof, as well as assisting at workshops. Preston will be doing some workshops in New Mexico, if anyone is free to travel. He is a well-informed teacher. Michael, our resident builder, always brings his creative perspective to whatever we do at Pine Manor.

In April of 2004, we planted the Living Roof with the help of Amy Lerner. The roof is a charming space, with a pathway that leads to a bench where one can sit and enjoy not only the view, but also a lovely variety of plants, including mint, geraniums, irises, wild strawberries, and more.

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