5 Environmentally-Friendly Homes Designed with Various Eco House Principles
The Earth, which is getting older, must be cared for and preserved to ensure it remains a comfortable place for future generations. One way to contribute to the well-being of our planet is by designing eco-friendly homes. Eco-friendliness in housing can be achieved through various means, including the choice of materials, environmental utilization, and architectural design. Being eco-friendly doesn't always mean being surrounded by forests; here are some eco-friendly home designs tailored to their unique concepts.
WaterShed Maryland House
Designed by the University of Maryland, this eco-friendly house incorporates a water recycling system. Used water from washing and bathing is collected and filtered for reuse in the home's garden and other purposes. Solar panels are also utilized to generate electricity from the sun's energy. The house's front features a waterfall design, which helps control its surrounding humidity levels.
Caterpillar House
Designed by Sebastian Irarrazaval, this house creatively uses 12 recycled shipping containers, making it not only unique but also environmentally friendly. The house employs a passive cooling system by harnessing cool air from the Andes Mountains, eliminating the need for air conditioning. In addition to being eco-friendly, this house showcases a modern and elegant black exterior.
House at Melbourne
Renovating an existing home can also be a sustainable way to design an eco-friendly residence. By reorienting the house to avoid direct sunlight and excessive heat, redesigning the interior layout, and optimizing the placement of windows and roof designs, it's possible to enhance natural lighting and airflow while minimizing heat gain.
House by Koru Architects
This three-bedroom house, designed by Koru Architects, prioritizes environmentally friendly design. Natural materials like zinc, oak walls, wooden insulation, and recycled glass in the kitchen contribute to its eco-friendliness. Rainwater harvesting is employed to irrigate plants, flush toilets, and for general use. Solar panels further enhance the house's sustainability by reducing energy consumption.
Method Homes
Located in West Seattle, this home is recognized for its sustainable design, achieved through the use of prefab construction materials. This approach minimizes waste associated with traditional construction methods. Besides its eco-friendliness, the home has a futuristic appearance due to its unique prefab materials. Additionally, building a house with this system is efficient and time-saving.
