The most basic type of earth sheltered house design starts with an A-frame form. This form has a slanted roof line like a triangular peak, creating an expansive, open-span interior that allows in a lot of natural light. As a result, this form of design is very energy-efficient, providing the most passive heating and cooling. It also enables you to use the earth as insulation and provides an anchor point for the frame to rest securely on the ground. This simple design is ideal for off-grid living and can be easily customized to fit any size lot. Simply dig out an area for the depth of the A-frame, and add in a loft or two levels of living space. Earth sheltered house design can also be completed with other frame styles such as Gable, Gambrel, or Mansard. These frame types may be more appealing in certain climates due to their greater roof pitch, allowing for more attic storage and ventilation. As with an A-frame, you’ll need to dig out an appropriate area in the ground in order to accommodate the frame and provide extra room for insulation. A thicker grade of insulation may be needed in those areas that receive a bit more sun than others in order to keep your interior spaces comfortable. Earth Sheltered House Design Basics
Earth Sheltered House Design Basics
Green homes are becoming increasingly popular due to their energy efficiency and cost savings. An earth sheltered home design is the perfect way to take advantage of natural resources and conserve energy. By utilizing the natural insulation of the earth, these homes can cut down on heating and cooling costs. Furthermore, natural ventilation through geothermal technology helps to regulate an internal climate year-round. These green homes don’t need to sacrifice any of their aesthetics either; earth sheltered home designs come in a wide variety of styles and can even include outdoor living spaces. Whether you’re building an off-grid cabin in the woods or a suburban home, this type of earth-friendly design can help create an eco-friendly oasis. Green Homes: Earth Sheltered Home Designs
Green Homes: Earth Sheltered Home Designs
Earth berm house designs involve a unique method of construction that utilizes dirt and other excavated materials to construct a protective wall. The wall is then packed with dirt and other soil materials to provide insulation and create a secure structure. This type of construction is ideal for areas where the ground soil is not suitable for building directly on, such as areas with unstable soil or too much rock or clay. By utilizing an earth berm house design, you can create an airtight home that is surprisingly energy-efficient and cost-effective. Furthermore, it allows you to take advantage of natural landscape elements while still creating a secure structure. Earth Berm House Designs
Earth Berm House Designs
When looking into earth sheltered home designs, it’s important to take into consideration both the advantages and disadvantages of this type of construction. The pros include energy efficiency, low maintenance costs, and environmental-friendliness, while the cons include the need to excavate soil, limited space, and lack of natural light. Furthermore, an earth sheltered home can be prone to moisture and excessive heat during the summer months, so it’s important to take all of these factors into account before you commit to this type of design. Pros and Cons of Earth Sheltered Home Design
Pros and Cons of Earth Sheltered Home Design
When it comes to floor plan design, earth sheltered homes pose unique considerations. First and foremost, consider the type of floor plan you’d like to use for your structure. A popular choice for earth sheltered homes is the A-frame model, which creates an open span that allows plenty of natural light to penetrate. However, you may also want to consider a Gable, Gambrel, or Mansard roof if you need more attic space or plan to add a loft. Additionally, keep in mind that you’ll need to dedicate a certain amount of extra space in order to accommodate the additional insulation needed. Earth Sheltered Floor Plan Design Considerations
Earth Sheltered Floor Plan Design Considerations
The design principles of an earth house are based on the idea of sustainability and environmental friendliness. This means utilizing natural resources and passive heating and cooling techniques to reduce energy costs and preserve the livelihood of the earth. By utilizing earth building materials and techniques like earthbags and cob, you can create an energy-efficient structure that is exceptionally durable. Additionally, consider using alternative energy sources like solar, wind, and geothermal for your climate control needs. Design Principles of an Earth House
Design Principles of an Earth House
For those looking to take their earth sheltered home design a step further, sustainable underground home designs are a great way to create an eco-friendly oasis. Not only do these homes provide superior energy efficiency and a sense of safety, but they also offer an escape from the noise and hustle of everyday life. By utilizing recycled materials and energy efficient building techniques, you can create a subterranean dwelling that is remarkably energy-efficient and cost-effective. The key to success with these designs is good drainage, so make sure that your underground structures have a proper drainage system in place.Sustainable Underground Home Designs
Sustainable Underground Home Designs
Earth-ship home designs are inspired by the concept of sustainable living, utilizing natural resources and earth building materials to create an energy-efficient dwelling. Key principles of this type of design include a reliance on natural materials and resources, such as brick, stone, clay, wood, and metal, in order to create an airtight structure that will withstand extreme weather conditions. Additionally, these homes rely on passive heating and cooling techniques to regulate an internal climate year-round, and may utilize alternative energy sources such as solar and wind in order to reduce energy costs. Key Principles of Earth-Ship Home Designs
Key Principles of Earth-Ship Home Designs
Earth sheltered geothermal home designs provide an energy-efficient, low-maintenance option for off-grid living. By utilizing geothermal energy, these homes can significantly reduce energy costs associated with heating and cooling. In addition to geothermal energy, earth sheltered homes rely on passive heating and cooling principles such as natural ventilation and airtight insulation to preserve an interior climate. The result is an energy-efficient home that makes the most of the earth’s resources and creates an eco-friendly oasis. Earth Sheltered Geothermal Home Designs
Earth Sheltered Geothermal Home Designs
Passive solar home design combines natural ventilation and passive heating and cooling techniques to create an energy-efficient dwelling. Through the use of design elements such as insulated walls, exposed windows, and geothermal energy, passive solar homes can significantly reduce energy costs associated with climate control. In addition, these homes also rely on natural lighting and ventilation to create a comfortable living space year-round. Furthermore, passive solar homes often come equipped with energy-efficient appliances and smart home automation features, enabling occupants to monitor and adjust their energy consumption with ease. Passive Solar Home Design Basics
Passive Solar Home Design Basics
Earth sheltered home building materials and techniques utilize natural resources and earth building principles to create an energy-efficient and affordable dwelling. Earth and clay materials can be used to construct an airtight and durable structure, while recycled materials can be implemented to reduce waste and reduce the overall cost of construction. Additionally, earth sheltered homes rely on passive heating and cooling techniques, utilizing natural ventilation and earth insulation to regulate an interior climate year-round. Finally, these homes can also benefit from alternative energy sources such as solar and geothermal energy in order to further reduce energy costs associated with climate control. Earth Sheltered Home Building Materials and Techniques
Earth Sheltered Home Building Materials and Techniques
Advantages of Earth Sheltered House Design
Earth sheltered house design offers a range of benefits for homeowners. Firstly, they are usually energy efficient compared to traditional house designs - this is due to partially burying the structure in the ground which creates a buffer zone to minimize the heat that is gained from outside in summer and lost inside in winter. It also ensures a more consistent interior temperature, especially in extreme climates. Secondly, this type of construction is remarkably strong and requires less maintenance compared to other styles. The earth around the structure helps to provide resistance to natural disasters such as floods and high winds, as well as sheltering it from noise and pests. Lastly, an earth-sheltered house can be aesthetically pleasing, blending into the surrounding landscape and blending in with the natural surroundings.
Installing Earth Sheltered Houses
Installing an earth-sheltered house can be complicated and will require the services of a professional architect and builder. However, the process is also very rewarding as the combination of natural materials, energy efficiency and environmental sensitivity can lead to a unique and attractive living space. The architect and builder will assess the local topography to ensure that the site is suitable for the construction of an underground house, then they will assess the soil and other factors to ensure that the structure is sufficiently supported and safe. They will then plan the design of the structure - considering the style, size and shape - and design the layout of the living space based on the needs of the homeowner.
Materials
The materials used for an earth-sheltered house will be similar to those used for a regular home, but with some additional considerations. Typical materials used include concrete, brick, steel and insulation. However, waterproof membranes may also be necessary to prevent water ingress in underground areas, while sturdy steel reinforcement should be used to give added strength to the walls. The roof may also consist of earth, soil or vegetation planted on top, which can offer further insulation benefits and helps the structure become even more embedded in its surroundings.
Other Considerations
When it comes to an earth-sheltered house, maintaining air exchange and ventilation is vital in order to maintain a healthy and comfortable living environment. This is achieved by placing intake and outtake vents strategically around the house which provide fresh air, while also preventing condensation and moisture build-up. Furthermore, lighting and natural light need to be considered, as the living space may be partially or completely below ground. This can be achieved with skylights or large windows, or simply installing plenty of artificial lights.
