Each project is custom and will require an extensive budgeting analysis to generate accurate cost estimates based on specific project design. In general, the cost of our structures range from $180 to $300 per square feet. The estimate of $180 per square foot does not include finishes such as: light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, cabinets, counter tops, flooring, tile, windows, roofing, roofing insulation, or finish plastering. It also does not include engineering, blue prints, septic, PG&E or solar power, earthworks, or fire sprinkler engineering and installation. It is to hard to estimate these variable expenses on a per square foot price. Clients can choose inexpensive products or high end products, different plans require different engineering and energy calculations, fire sprinklers will depend on the design of the house, and different sites require more or less earthworks. Estimating for septic, PG&E or solar, is almost impossible on a per square foot price. The $180 price per square foot covers the following items: Rubble trench foundation, concrete stem wall, framing the house, framing and sheathing the roof, rough electrical, rough plumbing, straw bale and cob infill, leveling coat, interior wall infill, and scratch coat plaster for the exterior and interior.
The square foot price can go up or down depending on the finishes chosen (windows, cabinets, flooring, light fixtures, plumbing fixtures, etc.) in most cases not exceeding $240 per square foot for mid range finishes, and up to $300 per square foot for high end finishes. This price is comparable to the cost of conventional buildings, except our natural structures are one of a kind, and built with love and care. They are non toxic, permeable, and healthier for the people living in the buildings and the environment.