LUCAS' HOME

During a 2005 internship with Habitat for Humanity, Adam Perry developed strong ties with the local community of Masiphumelele and in particular, a local Habitat builder named Lucas Sobhuwa. In an effort to demonstrate natural building techniques, Adam built an earthen (cob) house for the Sobhuwa family. This served as a model for the construction technique and also gave the local residents and businesses exposure to the natural building medium.

Adam locally sourced all of the needed raw materials and met with local engineers and architects in order to have adequate plans drawn up and structurally approved. The house is 60 m2 and includes 6 rooms. It was designed in such a way that makes use of the existing post apartheid government provided toilet.

In March 2009, the Earth Rising Foundation evaluated the project, re-plastering the outside of the building and added a coat of natural paint. The project continues to be a viable building option in an urban context and attracts many visitors to the home.