Uniquely designed, self-sustaining, and made of recycled or natural materials, these homes are the brainchild of renegade bioarchitect Michael Reynolds. Based in New Mexico, his goal is to create self-sufficient, off-the-grid communities where design and function converge in eco-harmony. He uses discarded modern by-products found locally, and integrates them into construction materials that can be used to build a sustainable home.
Earthships can be custom built or purchased, just like typical real estate through an online network of individual sellers. These homes have been built worldwide and varying environments, highlighting the versatility of this concept.
Earthship Biotecture is described as:
Earthship n. 1. passive solar home made of natural and recycled materials 2. thermal mass construction for temperature stabilization. 3. renewable energy & integrated water systems make the Earthship an off-grid home with little to no utility bills.
Biotecture n. 1. the profession of designing buildings and environments with consideration for their sustainability. 2. A combination of biology and architecture.
To specifically design and build homes that…
- Heat and cool themselves naturally via solar/thermal dynamics.
- Collect their own power from the sun and wind.
- Harvest their own water from rain and snow melt.
- Contain and treat their own sewage on site.
- Produce a significant amount of food.
- Are constructed using the byproducts of modern society like cans, bottles and tires.
Highlights of Earthship homes include:
- 100% solar with battery backup that provides power for up to two weeks without a drop of sun.
- Maintains 70F internal temperature w/o any heating or cooling system whatsoever (solar gain and passive geothermal)
- Catchwater and cistern – requires 9 inches of rainfall per YEAR to provide adequate water for home use
- Massive room for indoor plants (grow bananas in Alaska), as well as greywater and blackwater for large outdoor gardens.
- Costs less and lasts longer than traditional housing
Find out more about this revolutionary building concept at Earthship.com
Recent Comments
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