Overview
The Forrest House
Shelter comes from the need for sanctuary and protection from the wildness of Nature. Shelter is our second body, driven into existence by hunger, and the need for warmth and safety. Nature’s storms, winds and temperatures compel us to build a space to cook food and to be human, together. The obstacles She presents ultimately strengthen and help us to build relationships and community.
At Organic Shelter, we study and copy Nature and Her ways. We notice that every creature builds their home; it is only we humans who hire expensive contractors to do the job. This is very understandable given it can be intimidating to build your own home considering the numerous structural and safety standards that must be met. Contractor fees, permits, licenses and mortgage payments all must be considered.
Nevertheless, carpenters and skilled craftsman do build their own homes. But what about people with no building experience? What about them? Can someone build their own home? Can they build their own custom home with no building skills or experience?
Yes and Here’s Why
Building your own home is empowering. It saves tons of money; you get it the way you want it, and it becomes a home that reflects you. You, as owner, become the contractor. As the contractor you are responsible for (and to) your vision of what’s possible and what you can afford. Building your own shelter, growing food and cultivating a deep connection with Nature is an act of love. By becoming the owner/contractor you are also empowered by actively participating in the Greatness of Existence.
Organic Shelters grow organically. They start out as an idea, a possibility. They attract the light and set down roots. Conceived in your heart, the idea of an Organic Shelter germinates and grows. Nature and our ancestors guide us through the Organic Shelter building process. Our goal for your home is to build the best, most beautiful and affordable Organic Shelter possible.
With me as a builder and co-conspirator in your project, we navigate the waters that once were the exclusive domain of architects, engineers, contractors, counties, inspectors and banks. We exceed all state and county codes with excellent design, and carefully chosen materials, while also taking responsibility for structural integrity and safety.
How do you envision the Shelter and Sanctuary of your dreams? Cultivate the vision. Let it talk to you. Listen.
Work with Me
Now I build custom homes, yurts, tree houses and tiny homes highlighted by living roofs and decks.
As I mentioned, my clients assume the role and function of contractor for their building project. I request this because you are the one with the greatest investment in your vision and the project. You also are the one with the most responsibility for its success. As the owner/contractor you have the power and control over all aspects of the project, and can fire me any time you want. We have no binding contract, only an honorable agreement as professionals to work together.
In meeting the project’s requirements the owner/contractor and the builder both need to be capable and willing to define and assume complete responsibility for their roles. We agree to work with any situation that arises in a way that solves problems quickly, efficiently and effectively. Virtually all building projects have surprises and unexpected developments that can be challenging and difficult. People who spend money and time on a project expect positive results, and when something is missed or mistakes are made, we will need to agree on a method to solve the problem.
I keep my rates unusually low to help my clients keep their costs down, and I don’t carry insurance. Instead, I rely on myself and my clients to pay close attention to the needs of the project, to work hard and smart, and to be willing to mediate any and all conflicts that may arise within our relationship. No third party litigation, no law suits, only mediation if we can’t solve the problem between ourselves.
This is my disclaimer since builders are easy targets when things don’t go as planned. If I make a mistake, I will correct it on my time and use it to the project’s advantage, whenever possible.
I have never been fired, only promoted: all of my clients are now friends who recommend me to their friends. Nor have I ever advertised over my 40 years of building projects on a very regular basis.
There are three ways to access my experience and expertise for your building project. Throughout the duration of building your home, I am likely to participate in each of these three positions.
(1) Design
I draw plans for many of my clients. Some people suggest that I have artistic talent as a designer and builder. I reply that it’s more accurate to say that I am a thief and a plagiarist! I steal Nature’s ideas routinely and marvel at Her intelligence and elegance of design while copying Her every chance I get. All my ideas come through me, not from me; I take no credit for the greatness and beauty of life that inspires me deeply. The love and beauty of Nature results in beautiful ideas, forms and the perfect nests for Her creatures.
The home we build throbs with the life-blood of Nature. She is our heart and where our soul loves to be. That makes design the domain we enter on our knees, on our face. That’s right. The awe inspiring majesty of Nature is the reflection of our human heart. Building homes and cities that respect and reflect Her majesty is long overdue..
I advocate the no-permit, no mortgage, no license, no inspection building process. We can submit plans to the county and get a permit too, if you want. I do it both ways but my overwhelming preference is to do it privately. You choose.
(2) Consultation
If I can’t be there at your project, I can still consult for you and will request a retainer so as to be available as much as possible to answer all your calls. This is especially effective when the client sends me close-up snapshots with their questions.
(3) Hands-on
This is when I show up in the flesh with my truck and tools. I typically request payment weekly, or a payment arrangement that we otherwise agree to before the project begins.
Additional Important Information
As a builder, I have had to learn the fundamental principles of structure and process. The laws of Nature are so magnificent and precise, how we build can be no less. I take my relationship with my clients very seriously and I am accountable and committed to creating real, lasting value. The clear, well-defined boundaries and responsibilities we establish for ourselves will support and protect us all.
Please feel free to contact me, I look forward to hearing from you.
Robert Cinque 360 393 5663 shelter@nwlink.com
Introducing The Real Wonder Woman
I am Marissa, a passionate woman who’s goal in life is to live life simply in harmony with the natural world. I was raised in a conventional standard American household but realized that cultivating a life in community (both human and non human) was necessary. During the Covid-19 shutdowns, instead of turning to fear or anger I began demolishing and rebuilding an old cabin in Alger, WA.
Robert helped for a generous 8 weekends teaching me about building and about life. During that time I was also in school at Western Washington University finishing a degree in Environmental Studies. He helped in so many ways and I consider him an elder and a teacher. He’s an incredibly hard worker and has genius ideas on how to build with a budget and with scraps and salvage wood. the process of building changed my life and my perspective; it taught me lessons about life overall. ~ Marissa Wall marissawall@icloud.com
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