You do not necessarily need the newest technology in order to implement energy efficiency principles in your home. The following pictures reveal a well-known building technique that can easily do the task- earth-sheltered homes.

These homes are comfortable, weather-resistant, tranquil, and relaxing. Also, they are eco-friendly and low-cost housing alternatives.

They can be of two types: underground and bermed. When the entire earth-sheltered house is built below grade or completely underground, it’s called an underground structure, while a bermed house may be built above grade or partially below grade, with earth covering one or more walls.

When it comes to the advantages of such a house, Energy.gov explains:

“An earth-sheltered home is less susceptible to the impact of extreme outdoor air temperatures than a conventional house. Earth-sheltered houses also require less outside maintenance, and the earth surrounding the house provides soundproofing.

In addition, plans for most earth-sheltered houses “blend” the building into the landscape more harmoniously than a conventional home. Finally, earth-sheltered houses can cost less to insure because they offer extra protection against high winds, hailstorms, and natural disasters such as tornados and hurricanes.”

The following earth-sheltered, earth-roofed homes will impress you!

1. This tiny underground earthbag house is located in the Rhiannon Community in Ecuador.

2. This romantic Norwegian earth-sheltered hut is built in Hol, Buskerud, Norway.

                                                                                                                more details HERE…

3. The Umbrella Home: A Simple Underground House Design- The “umbrella” is hidden in the earth that stands for the roof of the house and insulates the soil around the building.

more details HERE…

4. Honingham Earth Sheltered Social Housing- this is an example of the UK’s first earth-sheltered social housing scheme. The home has two bedrooms, with a high thermal mass superstructure, and super-insulation, which reduces the total annual energy consumption by two-thirds of conventional home usage.

5. Keldur Turf House in South-Iceland- This historical farm of Keldur is the oldest turf or sod house in Iceland.

more details HERE…

Source: www.goodshomedesign.com