There are two methods to follow when building a home:
- A Disposable Home: a home that is dependent on continuous external input for its continued operation – such as energy, time, materials, and money; and will eventually reach a state of disrepair where it is no longer financially feasible to maintain.
- A Living Home: a home that is a self sustaining cell producing more energy and free time than it consumes; creating an autonomous structure that is interconnected to maximize your families’ investment.
Some may consider the term “Living Home” as an oxymoron. How can a building that is made of inanimate parts, as a whole, become alive? True; the materials that constructed the home are in an inert state; but a Living Home is a place that creates abundance by promoting life, rejuvenation, and relaxation.
A Living Home is designed with the well being of its occupants as the paramount importance. It stands and embraces the world with the sole thought of protecting, enriching, and rewarding the family that dwells within its walls.
Each item used in its construction is for the families’ health and freedom. Its exterior frame supports the whole, providing the family with warmth in winter and coolness in summer. It diffuses the winds, rains, quakes, and fires; protecting its precious occupants. Each window allows for optimum light, while shading against the hot sun.
Rain is harvested, replenishing the cistern and ensuring clean water in every condition. The sun’s heat is stored, securing warmth through the coldest nights. The earth is embraced, drawing on its cool interior; refreshing the family in the hottest days.
Each material is chosen with the greatest care:
- paint with no VOCs or dangerous toxins that pollute the air;
- LED lights giving optimum longevity and illumination;
- VOC-free flooring, with lush carpet, tile, wood, or stone;
- sleek, quiet, energy efficient appliances;
- dual flush toilets and aerated faucets;
- plumbing for rainwater harvesting, grey-water irrigation, and black-water purification;
- complete with living walls, herb patios, and rooftop gardens
With PV panels, a Living Home goes beyond the health and safety of its occupants, and provides them the freedom of energy, time, and action; giving the family a means of living with all the modern pleasures; but without the stress, attention, and constraints of a disposable home.
This is what a Living Home entails. It is for the benefit of the family. If the home becomes a burden, it is no longer for the families benefit and has stopped being a Living Home; for the homes’ very essence is for the support and enrichment of the living.
Is your home a Living Home?