Building Off the Grid

Bamboo-home architect David Sands seizes the opportunity to build his own getaway in Hawaii that features a luxurious outdoor bath area and detached, starlit master bedroom.

A family builds thousands of earth blocks while withstanding winter monsoons, freezing temperatures and more to finish their San Antonio forever home.

Marine scientists hire engineers Nicolas Derouin and Arnaud Luguet to create a first-of-its-kind floating home. Nicolaus and Arnaud have nine months to complete it, but unpredictable weather and build hiccups threaten the project.

A couple sets out to build a home using five shipping containers on a wooded lot in Oklahoma. They hope his professional background and their collection of building materials helps them finish the job quickly.

Professional treehouse builder Michael "Murph" Murphy wants to build a cottage retreat for his family in Washington. He enlists his friends to create a natural siding and a massive fishing net for lounging above the living space.

A Texas family builds an oceanfront oasis on the majestic slopes of Maui, Hawaii. The Quonset hut will keep the budget low but a number of unexpected setbacks will push the hardworking family to their limits.

Cat Taylor uses her artistic and naturalistic background to construct a remote sanctuary for her and her husband in the woods of Northwest Texas.

A couple builds the 2,400-square-foot cabin of their dreams deep in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State.

Phil Parr heads to northern Colorado to build the ultimate off-grid tent. Far beyond simple nylon and poles, this lavish tent has a custom fabricated wooden frame, canvas shell and 650-square-feet of livable elegance.

Cappie brings together off-grid and luxury in the hills of South Dakota.