Ep 8. California Cob House

Building Off the Grid is a popular TV show that follows the construction of unique and sustainable homes in remote locations. In season 9 episode 8 named California Cob House, a couple takes on the challenge of building a low-impact home that blends in with the surrounding wilderness.

The show starts with a brief introduction of the couple, who are passionate about nature and sustainable living. They have chosen a remote location in Northern California for their cob house project. The location is a rocky hill surrounded by tall trees, and their aim is to create a home that is in harmony with the natural landscape.

The first challenge they face is finding the right materials for their cob house. Cob is a mixture of clay, sand, and straw that is used for building thick walls. The couple decides to use local materials to reduce their carbon footprint. They collect clay and sand from the nearby riverbed and gather straw from a local farm.

The next challenge is building the foundation for their cob house. Since the location is rocky, they cannot dig too deep for fear of destabilizing the hill. They decide to build a rubble trench foundation, consisting of a trench filled with rocks and gravel, which will provide a solid base for their walls.

As the construction progresses, the couple faces many challenges, such as finding the right balance between windows and insulation and building a roof that can withstand heavy rains. They also face unexpected setbacks, like when a wildfire breaks out nearby, threatening to destroy their project.

Despite the challenges, the couple remains focused and determined to finish their cob house. They work long hours, mixing and shaping the cob walls by hand, and personally sourcing and installing their plumbing, electrical and solar systems.

Towards the end of the show, their hard work finally pays off, as they complete their cob house. The finished home is a beautiful example of sustainable living, with thick cob walls that provide insulation, and large windows that let in natural light and air. The interior is cozy and full of charm, with handcrafted furniture and colorful decor.

Overall, Building Off the Grid season 9 episode 8 is an inspiring story of a couple who dared to build a sustainable home in a remote location, overcoming challenges and obstacles along the way. It is a testament to the power of human ingenuity and creativity in the face of adversity, and a must-watch for anyone interested in sustainable living.