Heat, Shelter, Water, Food

This incredibly timely book by Harrison Gardner is subtitled How to be ready for the unexpected. It's what we probably all should have received in the post recently instead of the slightly vague 'be emergency ready' booklet.

As extreme weather and ageing infrastructure create new pressures, Harrison shows how simple, affordable upgrades can dramatically improve your home’s resilience. From storm-proofing your space to securing heat and water, he breaks down what really works and why.

While some of the projects might seem a bit aspirational (I'd love to build my own greenhouse), there are lots of shorter-term, lower-effort things you can do straight away. More than that, it gets you thinking about how you might face some of the challenges ahead of time, so you're not so clueless in the event of an emergency. It’s the essential handbook for anyone who wants to feel capable and firmly back in control.

Harrison is an Australian eco-builder and designer who finds himself in the west of Ireland, living an enviable, sustainable life. He has been running 'Common Knowledge', a not-for-profit organisation that empowers people to live sustainably in Kilfenora, Co. Clare, an area not unfamiliar with the odd power cut. But it's his 15 years of experience building off-grid homes that probably qualifies him best to give advice on weathering a storm or any unforeseen eventuality.

Check out the rest of our books here at designist. We have some great books about living sustainably.

Who wrote it?
Harrison Gardner.

How does it come?
Hardback, 295 pages with illustrations throughout. 20 × 3.5 × 27 cm approx.