Photographic inspiration from traditional Japanese construction. Additional views here.
This is by no means a comprehensive introduction and there is much more to say on the subject, but here are a few interesting images of the creative use of clay, straw, wood, and stone to create beautiful and lasting structures. The first several images are of a kura, an ancient storehouse, designed to withstand the test of time, weather, and hot Japanese summers.
The foundation is made from cut stone, the frame from heavy timbers, and the walls are straw and clay over split bamboo lath. The double layered roof allows for ventilation and the thick walls provide insulation. The final layer is fine mud plaster with chopped straw, baked clay tiles for the roof, and vertical wood siding on the lower half for rain protection.
