How do you build a chamorro model house?

Building a traditional CHamoru model house requires attention to authentic materials and construction techniques. Here's a general guide:

Materials:

- Wood: Traditionally, CHamoru homes used local hardwood like ifil (Intsia bijuga) or banyan (Ficus spp.) for posts and other structural elements. Today, alternative durable hardwoods can also be used.

- Thatch: Roof thatching typically used sugar cane or nipa palm (Nypa fruticans) in the past. Other thatching materials like coconut leaves can be used as well.

- Stone: Some CHamoru houses employed locally sourced stones for constructing the foundation, walls, or other structural parts.

- Bamboo: Bamboo was and still is commonly used for creating window and door frames, flooring, and ceiling panels.

- Natural Cordage: Coconut fibers, woven into natural cordage, were used to secure various structural elements.

Construction Process:

1. Site Selection:

- CHamoru houses were often built on elevated terrain to protect against flooding and benefit from natural breezes.

2. House Frame:

- Construct a sturdy wooden frame. Traditional posts (timbre) are usually embedded in stones to ensure stability.

3. Thatching:

- Attach the roofing materials to the roof frame. Thatching should create a thick protective layer against rain and sun.

4. Wooden Panels:

- Install woven bamboo or wooden panels to create the exterior walls. These panels are secured with natural cordage.

5. Floors:

- For the floor, use wooden decking or bamboo flooring supported by beams. Floors were typically left open, allowing for air circulation.

6. Doors and Windows:

- Utilize bamboo and wood to construct doors and window frames. Sliding doors and shuttered windows were common features.

7. Interior Elements:

- CHamoru homes have an open interior layout. Simple but sturdy wooden furniture, such as benches, tables, and shelves, can be added as needed.

8. Roof Ornament (Sala' or 'Ta'taota'):

- A symbolic and decorative roof ornament, crafted from wood or thatching, is placed atop the roof to complete the traditional design.

Remember, building a traditional CHamoru model house should honor the cultural heritage of the CHamoru people. It's important to incorporate authentic elements and construction techniques while adapting the project to your specific scale and resources.