Lazy New Year?

Happy New Year! Maybe you worry about the break in reporting on this blog - don't worry! We are still here!

Fact is however, that Winter is a lousy time to do any kind of construction work. Cement cracks, and so does mortar. There are only a few jobs that can be done during this season.

We do not rest however, instead we do less glamorous jobs: Sending drawings to contractors, checking out legal details, getting quotes and meeting other companies and peoples that are interested in co-operating with us. We are now at a crucial stage in deciding contractors, and finalising our plans, and hope that the heavy work can finally start in March.

Unfortunately, interior works must wait until we have replaced a bunch of beams and posts. This job can of course only be done by an expert carpenter, and definitely requires some time: The entire house must be stabilised with temporary poles first, and is than jacked up to allow replacement of individual beams. Following that we can envisage doing flooring, insulation and internal walls. When it gets warmer in Ueda again, work on the roof will start. And of course, we need to care for permits, license and other matters before opening up.

With all this work, we would like to utilise only ecological materials as much as possible, and try to source the building expertise and carpentry from the local community. Inaka Home will only succeed if the community is involved.

Another reason for the temporary lull in blog posts is that my family has been boosted by one fresh arrival. A little baby boy was born, wo can enjoy natural life in our house soon!