02-19-2009, 11:42 AM
Thank you all for your comments! I will let Ed answer some of the questions since he originated the post, but will field a few:
-We were delighted Google Earth updated the Puna coverage after we did the site clearing and driveway in 2005.
-Had no real problems with building permits. The biggest obstacle we ran into was getting a construction loan. Combination of "non-standard" house, lack of comparable properties and then the lending market. Seems that most of the other bamboo buildings in the state were self-funded. That's now thankfully behind us and we hope to convert to a conventional mortgage soon.
-Royall, the intent of the shop has always been for woodworking and Ed's desire to have a potting wheel. It's been a delight to have a workshop during the construction. It also houses the solar system. As you can imagine, being 900 feet from the road necessitated going off-grid.
-Finally, the shower: I admit to being a shower-freak and this one is wonderful. On clear days we can see the snow on Mauna Kea while enjoying a really strong, hot shower!
-We were delighted Google Earth updated the Puna coverage after we did the site clearing and driveway in 2005.
-Had no real problems with building permits. The biggest obstacle we ran into was getting a construction loan. Combination of "non-standard" house, lack of comparable properties and then the lending market. Seems that most of the other bamboo buildings in the state were self-funded. That's now thankfully behind us and we hope to convert to a conventional mortgage soon.
-Royall, the intent of the shop has always been for woodworking and Ed's desire to have a potting wheel. It's been a delight to have a workshop during the construction. It also houses the solar system. As you can imagine, being 900 feet from the road necessitated going off-grid.
-Finally, the shower: I admit to being a shower-freak and this one is wonderful. On clear days we can see the snow on Mauna Kea while enjoying a really strong, hot shower!