🌴 West Cliff Cottage: The Saga Continues!

That’s right — our beloved little Cottage project is still in full swing, and it’s shaping up to be a true island dream come to life. Every beam, nail, and polished plank is part of a bigger vision: a cozy retreat where nature, simplicity, and local craftsmanship meet. We’re turning raw materials into something that feels both rustic and refreshing, perfect for those who love the charm of a traditional Filipino home with a modern touch.

🛠️ How to Preserve your Bamboo Cottage

Now, building is one thing — but making sure this baby lasts? That’s a whole different game. And we’re not cutting corners when it comes to durability. Our preservation strategy is equal parts clever, creative, and a little bit old-school.

Here’s our Secret Recipe for a Long-lasting Cottage:

• Motor Oil Magic: Crazy as it sounds, recycled motor oil works wonders for wood preservation. It seeps deep into the grain, shielding it from moisture and rot — a tried-and-true trick passed down by old builders who knew their stuff.
• Varnish Finish: Once the oil works its charm, we top it off with varnish for that glossy, sun-kissed finish. It’s not just for looks (though it does look amazing) — it adds a protective layer that keeps the wood weatherproof and shining.
• Borax Boost: Here’s the science-y bit — borax is a natural protector against mold, termites, and other unwanted guests. It’s eco-friendly, affordable, and gives us peace of mind knowing the Cottage will stay strong and pest-free.

Making San Francisco a Little Bit Better

This project isn’t just about building a cool hangout spot. It’s about making our little corner of San Francisco a better place.

We’ve been Putting in the Hours

Rain or shine — and we can finally see the character of the structure emerging. The walls are up, the floors are being shaped, and the scent of freshly cut wood fills the air. There’s something deeply satisfying about watching a vision rise from the ground, piece by piece, powered by sweat, teamwork, and a lot of faith.

We’re getting so close, guys! I can practically taste the tropical vibes already. Imagine: sunshine, good company, and a perfect little Cottage to chill in. It’s going to be epic.

🪚Chopping, Shaping, and Building Dreams

The hands-on phase is where the real excitement kicks in. We’ve been busy cutting, fitting, and shaping the wood for the flooring, walls, and support beams. It’s a test of precision and patience — each cut needs to be exact, every piece has to fit like a puzzle. But when you see it all coming together, it’s pure joy.

We’re talking long days under the sun, the sound of saws echoing through the hill, and plenty of laughter in between. There’s a certain beauty in the process — in transforming raw, rugged timber into something welcoming and warm.

And yes, there’s still a ways to go — roofing, detailing, and all the finishing touches that make a space feel alive — but we’re getting there. Bit by bit, nail by nail, the West Cliff Cottage is becoming everything we envisioned: sturdy, stylish, and oh-so-tropical.

So stay tuned, folks! The West Cliff Cottage isn’t just a project — it’s a passion, a piece of paradise in the making. Every update brings us closer to the dream: a cozy, handcrafted getaway that celebrates simplicity, creativity, and the spirit of island living.

Almost There!

So, last time we left off, we were probably contemplating about the meaning of water shortages in the rainy season, or maybe just the best way to avoid headaches. This time? We’re getting serious.

Walls, Supports, and Layout!

The Kubo build continues, marking significant advancements in the construction process. Following the successful laying of the oil soaked main joists, their pinning, the project has moved into the crucial phase of wall elevation and structural reinforcement.

Wall Elevation: 

The team is currently focused on constructing the 50 cm wall elevation. And of course bamboo has no standard thickness, hence the wall became 60 cm IN AVERAGE!! This stage involves meticulous attention to detail to ensure the walls are straight, mostly; levelled, they are not due to natural bamboo growth; and structurally sound, yes it is. The measurements and alignment are critical for the overall integrity and aesthetics of the Kubo structure.

Floor Joists: 

Additional floor joists are being added where the flooring will terminate. We needed an endpiece so that the flooring will not hang loose where its terminates against a wall. This step is essential for providing a sturdy and even surface for the plywood sheets. The placement and spacing of these joists are made to ensure optimal support and prevent any future sagging or unevenness of the floor.

Corner Support: 

To enhance the stability and durability of the corners, the construction team is diligently attaching welded triangles. These triangular supports provide crucial horizontal reinforcement, distributing horizontal sheer forces and preventing potential weaknesses in the structure. These triangles are also attached and welded to vertical 10 mm pieces in order to guarantee a super stable corner. This method ensures the Kubo’s longevity and its ability to withstand heavy wind and rain.

So, there you have it.

Another thrilling installment in our Kubo adventure. Stay tuned for the next exciting episode, where we’ll probably argue about the best type of roof structures. It’s going to be epic. 😉

Kubo Chronicles: The Bamboo Ballet and the Stubby Wall Saga

Welcome back, dear readers, to the whimsical world of Kubo construction, where bamboo dreams come true and gravity is merely a suggestion! Today, we’re diving into the latest escapades of our Kubo build, where we’ve been busy crafting a tension grid that’s more reliable than your friend who promises to bring snacks to movie night but shows up empty-handed.

The Tension Grid: Keeping It Together

First things first, let’s talk about our tension grid. You see, we’ve built this marvelous contraption to ensure our Kubo doesn’t decide to take a spontaneous vacation down the cliff. Because, let’s be honest, no one wants their dream home to turn into a scenic slide into the abyss! With our tension grid in place, we can rest easy knowing that our structure is firmly anchored, like a cat on a sunny windowsill—content and unmovable.

Pinning It Down: The 10 mm Solution

Next up, we’ve drilled holes for 10 mm pins to hold our bamboo logs in place. Now, you might be wondering, “Why 10 mm?” Well, it’s the Goldilocks of pin sizes—not too big, not too small, but just right for keeping our bamboo logs from playing a game of hide and seek. These pins are like the bouncers of our bamboo party, ensuring that only the most well-behaved logs get to stay in the Kubo.

The Stubby Wall: A Head Above the Rest

Now, let’s get to the pièce de résistance: the 50 cm stubby wall! This little beauty is not just a wall; it’s a statement. Think of it as the stylish hat that gives our A-Frame a bit of flair. With this extra height, we’re not just adding headroom; we’re elevating our living experience! Imagine being able to stand up straight without doing the limbo every time you enter your cozy abode. It’s like upgrading from a cramped elevator to a spacious penthouse suite!

Welding and Hauling: The Bamboo Ballet

Today’s agenda includes the thrilling duo of welding and hauling bamboo. Yes, you heard that right! We’re not just building; we’re putting on a show! Picture this: our team, clad in welding gear, performing a synchronized dance as we haul bamboo logs like they’re the latest dance craze.

And speaking of welding, did you know that there’s a new trend in the bamboo world? TWI has partnered with Zero Glue Bamboo to explore welding bamboo without adhesives or fasteners. It’s like the bamboo version of a no-strings-attached relationship—just pure, unadulterated bonding!

The First Part, Welding the Grid

The Second Part, Building the Stub Wall

The Grand Finale

As we continue our Kubo build, we’re reminded that every weld, every pin, and every stubby wall is a step closer to our bamboo paradise. So, whether you’re a seasoned builder or just someone who enjoys watching DIY shows while snacking on popcorn, remember that building a Kubo is not just about the structure; it’s about the journey, the laughter, and the occasional mishap that makes for great stories later.

Stay tuned for more updates from the Kubo construction site, where the bamboo is always fresh, the walls are getting taller, and the adventures are just beginning! What do you think will happen next? Will we encounter a rogue bamboo log? Or perhaps a surprise visit from a curious cobra? Only time will tell! 🏡✨