Bushfires are a rising concern, leading people to explore fire-resilient forms of architecture. Dr. Martin Freney from Earthship Eco Homes has built one such home in Willunga, Australia, with the help of a team of volunteers. Its load-bearing walls are made from earth-packed tires and covered with earth, lime, or concrete to protect against fire and harsh weather.
The goal was to create a self-sufficient, off-grid living unit built sustainably. This has been achieved with a compact form and maximum use of local and recycled materials. The earth-covered walls add an eco-friendly touch, while glass bottles provide decorative flair on the exterior. The wooden elements at the front are bushfire-resistant and durable to match the sustainability theme.
This Earthship home does not rely on active heating or cooling systems. Instead, it uses underground earth tube ventilation to regulate indoor temperatures naturally. According to Freney, if the outside temperature is 40°C, the air entering the home drops to around 20°C. The greywater system is integrated with the indoor garden to support food production, creating a sustainable cycle. Furthermore, solar energy powers the home, further reducing its environmental impact.
The entrance is thoughtfully designed with large glass windows to double as a greenhouse space. This space is filled with plants for a refreshing outdoor feel indoors. Positioned at one end of the greenhouse area, the bathroom with a flushing toilet and a shower has a horizontal window to offer outside views.
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The kitchen and bedroom are located side by side, while a cozy dining area overlooks the indoor garden. This space has no windows, but it feels bright owing to its bright wall colors.
This Earthship home is similar to earth-sheltered houses but differs for using unconventional materials like car tires, glass bottles, and other natural or recycled elements. If you are curious about this unique style of sustainable living, you can experience it in real. The Earthship tiny home in Australia is available to rent on Airbnb for $182 per night.
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