around the house

my partner and i have been thinking about housing alot. it seems to be the only thing we think about. luckily we have both come to the mutual decision that we want to build our own home, and to build a dwelling that is sustainable, non-toxic, and just big enough. no monster home for us. the prices in vancouver have skyrocketed again in just this last year. the median price is now $490,000. who can afford this?
that's for a bottom of the barrel house in a not so nice neighbourhood.
we spend a lot of time dreaming about our house, i have scrapbooks filled with ideas.
if i was single with no kids i'd buy one of these and park it down near the water on vancouver island, maybe in metchosin. my house would include lots of wood and windows, the result of living in basement apartments and tiny suites for too long.
here are some great resources (albeit, disperate, my dream house will be eclectic, but totally ours);
cobworks, mayne island bc
compact living, such a beautiful book! i love the house made out a miso barrel...
miller/hull architects, beautiful, beautiful work. awe-inspiring.
when i have some time, i'll scan some of my dream house clippings from my journal.

i'll be away for a few days, i've just taken on 2 new freelance jobs, and one has a deadline of this monday. keep well.