Today’s book review, part of our ‘eco books review festival’, is by guest writer Gil Peled: Jerusalem-based Israeli eco-architect Gil (who trained in architecture in the wilds of deepest Scotland…), has been involved in planning and designing on the green scene in Israel for many years. His ongoing project is coordinating a Jerusalem apartment building which runs as a green housing project. He has recently returned from lecturing about this wonderful project at Oxford University. Learn more about it here, and do take the time to visit and get inspired!

Finishes are coatings applied to the external and internal surfaces of walls to protect them from the external elements and from internal wear and tear. In addition to their function to cover and protect the building’s structure, their textures and colours also determine the aesthetics of the building’s general appearance and interior spaces and atmosphere.

For centuries, lime and earth have been used for all types of buildings, on several continents and in hot and cold climate zones. The intention of this guide is to reacquaint us with ancient traditions and knowhow and to adapt them for contemporary use. This is especially relevant today in the light of growing public awareness of, and demand for, environmentally friendly, green and healthy buildings, as well as for DIY construction and repairs in tradional and vernancular contexts.

The guide, Using Natural Finishes, lime and earth based plasters, renders and paints – a step by step guide, by Adam Weismann and Katy Bryce, is very comprehensive and informative with overviews, useful advice and practical tips. Significant and interesting background information is provided throughout, such as the reduced environmental impacts and CO2 emissions and improved health of breathing natural finishes. “Cookery book” methods of application on various building structures include earth, cob, adobe, masonry walls, strawbale etc. as well as various detailings.