Beautiful houses don’t always have to be made of brick and mortar, especially if the occupants are concerned for the environment. Architecture and construction has become much more open-minded in recent years, with increasing designs made by people who care about our footprint on the world. Buildings are made to last, so why not help the planet at the same time? Structures can be designed to understand the needs of Mother Nature and aim to alleviate her load. Representing both beauty and function, these homes can often be almost entirely self-sustaining.
In Zermatt, Switzerland you’ll find a structure known as the ‘Evolver’ which was designed by architecture students in Lausanne. With such incredible views, the architecture needed to keep these in mind and so the property is made from wood and inspired by a snail’s shell. It provides the occupants with an uninterrupted, panoramic view of the Swiss outdoors. For advice on sustainable architecture from a Monmouth Architect, contact https://www.hillsandcompany.co.uk
Saltsjöbaden, Sweden is home to a unique property. Built in the 1970s, it features natural sunlight all day long and a composting system for waste disposal. Mull earth is produced under the toilet and rainwater is collected to be used for bathing, laundry, dishes, etc. The house contains a greenhouse used for growing food and also for heat. This is in the bedrock below the house, which cleverly retains the greenhouse’s heat, keeping the house warm.
Ever thought of having a seaweed roof? Well, in China, some houses have roofs that are made of seaweed as it insulates the house naturally. The house remains cool in the summer and warm in the winter thanks to this ingenious natural design.