Getting your player ready...
“Natural Timber Frame Homes: Building with Wood, Stone, Clay and Straw,” by Wayne J. Bingham and Jerod Pfeffer (Gibbs Smith, $29.95)
Authors Bingham and Pfeffer make the case for “building naturally” with locally available, sustainable materials. They argue that being environmentally conscientious can result in more durable and aesthetically pleasing homes. Dozens of photos showcase the character that can be added to structures with wood, stone, clay or straw. Readers learn tips from four natural timber frame floor plans such as building efficient spaces with straw bales, or implementing clay-finished walls.

