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. However, volcanic eruptions threaten to send the entire project up in smoke.

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

Marine scientists in Florida hire engineers Nicolas Derouin and Arnaud Luguet to create a first-of-its-kind floating home. They have nine months to complete it, but unpredictable weather and building hiccups may sink this project before it can swim.

First-time builders Shay and Shae set out to build a home using five shipping containers on a wooded lot in Oklahoma. They hope his background in electrical and welding, 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 they've chosen to go with 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. The two-story home uses a mixture of sand, clay and straw with a touch of comfort to entertain family.

Deep in the Cascade Mountains of Washington State, a couple is building their 2,400-square-foot dream cabin. The location gives them amazing views but hauling heavy beams up dusty switchbacks on a six-month deadline pushes them to their limits.

Builder Phil Parr heads to the wilderness of 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.

A father-son duo builds an off-grid home in Montana's Flathead Valley. The 720-square-foot stick-frame home takes advantage of the mountain winds using a wind-turbine generator for power and features plenty of upcycled materials from the surrounding area.