Home Site

Above a natural wash

Framework for Stem Walls

The mechanicals for the entire structure are framed within the walls. September 23, 1998.

New Beams

Salvaged from Phoenix, Arizona downtown Ballpark construction project, and cut to size. Total cost: $300.

Underground Air Conditioning System

In place before the floor is poured.

Foundation Slab is Poured

Workers prep bridge decking for upcoming pour of living room floor.

Interior Floors

Forms shape interior floors and steps.

Setting the Beam

Living room spanning the natural desert wash.

Living Room Under Construction

Another view of the home site, spanning a natural desert wash.

Wood Forms in Place

The walls were shaped by earthen mix poured into wood forms.

Pouring the Earthen Mix

Wall construction

Rebar Reinforcement

View inside the wall shows rebar support for bond beam.

The Wall is Revealed

The color will lighten as it drys.

Construction Continues

The room begins to take shape.

Another View of the Walls

Looking down from above

Patrick McCue

Taking a moment to enjoy progress made on the construction of his home

Computer rendering: Nathan Koran

The entire roof was built from initial concept to finished product based on this image.

Roof Trusses Under Construction

Foreground: roof truss on workshop floor, fresh off the jig, weighs 825 pounds. Background: a second truss nears completion.

Truss Positioned on Roof

Workman guides the truss as it is lowered into position by crane

Roof Trusses Into Position

Another view

Apex of Roof Truss

Roof Truss Close Up

View from another angle

South End of Truss

North End of Truss

In position, prior to final paint detailing

Metal Roof Trusses

Interior view of the roof trusses, as The House of Earth and Light takes shape.

HGTV Film Crew on Site

HGTV featured The House of Earth and Light on episode 608 of the Dreambuilders series.

Workman's Shadow

Shadows cast by the workmen above hint at the unique translucent beauty of the roof.

Patrick McCue

Setting the truss into position as fabric roof is attached. Photo: Doug Hoeschler.

Workers Align Fabric Roof Panels

Fabric Roof Attached to Trusses

Roofline Shadow

The House of Earth and Light casts a shadow on the Workshop Studio before it is painted and sealed. Photo used with permission.

Truss Engineering Detail View

Metal roof trusses with fabric roof panels installed. Photo: Bill Timmerman.

Front Entrance

Overhanging roof panels form eaves

Fabric Roof

Interior view. Photo: Bill Timmerman.