With the effects of climate change weighing on many of our minds, there’s been a recent surge in popularity of unique homes — some that are more eco-friendly than the traditional ones of years past.
In this article, we’ll explore some of the inspiring homes that are taking on the challenge of being as eco-friendly as possible; and some that will get you thinking outside the box when it comes to your own abode.
Edgeland House
Based in Austin Texas near Town Lake, Edgeland House is a beautifully designed building featuring an insulating green roof. Reflecting the atmosphere and extension of the natural landscape, this stunning home is split into sleeping and living spots – meaning you need to pass through the outdoors to go from one to the other.
Converted Campervan
If you’re on Instagram or TikTok you’ll likely have seen the hashtag #vanlife making the rounds. More people than ever before are choosing to give up large homes and lived in converted campervans that can accommodate a more nomadic lifestyle. Van life can encourage individuals to consume less water, electricity and fuel – and the size of the living space means that you’re not likely to go on shopping sprees any time soon.
Indigo Park
Located on Kiwah Island, Indigo Park is a resort community and the location for a five-bedroom eco home. With the environmentally responsible design, this is a beautiful space that is fully accessible and reaps the benefits of the resort which includes a golf course, wellness center and kids activities.
W.I.N.D. House
Based in the Netherlands W.I.N.D. house is a beautifully designed home with sustainability at its core. Designed by UNStudio, it’s also a smart home – which means that everything can be automated and controlled from a touch screen.
This home was built using natural materials and also features solar panels.
Canal Boat Living
Like those who are embracing #vanlife, others are choosing to live on narrowboats as an eco-friendlier lifestyle. Boats themselves don’t take up any land and as are much smaller than traditional houses use less energy when it comes to heating them up. Like with campervans, the size limitations means you’re much likely to consume and purchase less.
Many people are now purchasing narrow boats and converting them to fit even more living and working space as well as to reflect individual style and design. They’re a great option for those who want to live a bit more of a nomadic lifestyle – and many of those who are choosing to work remotely are investing in these interesting types of moveable property!
Shipping Container Homes
Another eco-friendly alternative to homes that are gaining in popularity are shipping container homes. Since repurposing a shipping container doesn’t require extra building materials or energy, it is not contributing to the excess waste volume.
Shipping container homes are a sustainable and creative (as well as affordable) option for those who are interested in thinking outside the box when it comes to the ways they live.
Many cities are now creating ‘box parks’ or cultural and events spaces out of shipping containers too.
Haycroft Gardens
This environmentally friendly property based in London is a single-story home designed by Sarah Wigglesworth Architects. The energy-efficient design of this home means that it can maintain a consistent temperature. The key and central point of this home is the garden and a beautiful one it is too!
