If you’ve been contemplating a DIY build and you’re wondering how to build a 20K sustainable house, you’ve come to the right place. This article will walk you through some of the options available to you. In particular, we’ll talk about EcoCraft, Rural Studio, and Easy Domes.
Easy Domes
The Easy Domes building system is a proven way to build a low-cost, energy efficient house. The system has been developed through research at Danish architectural and technical universities. It is based on the principle of many sided, platonic polyhedra and obeys the theory of f+v+e+2. The system was proven to be cost effective and has numerous benefits, including the ability to meet strict environmental standards.
Designed for a family, this sustainable home is made of natural materials and draws inspiration from Asian vernacular architecture. The three domes house two bedrooms and a common living space. The design is modular and easily customizable, and the interiors are adorned with wood finishes. They do not come with bathrooms or kitchens, so you will have to add them yourself.
EcoCraft
EcoCraft is a green construction company that builds sustainable homes for the market. Their goal is to create homes that reduce energy costs, and increase customer satisfaction. The company’s net-zero energy homes use up to 80% less energy than a traditionally built home, while delivering superior indoor air quality and style. Moreover, they use state-of-the-art software to create virtual models of the homes, so that clients can see the final product before the construction process begins.
The company is located in Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and uses prefabricated building techniques to create its eco-friendly homes. It uses high-performance insulation, mechanical systems, and water and energy conservation measures. The homes also feature thermal-bridge-free construction and passive solar orientation. Moreover, the company has partnered with Phipps Conservatory to host a “green classroom” that teaches kids about sustainable construction.
EcoCraft can help you with the design of your house, as they offer consultation services. They can also arrange for prefab pieces to be built for you. Additionally, you can use your own General Contractor and team to take care of the other aspects of the project. Moreover, you can choose from several floor plans, including contemporary and classic styles. EcoCraft has competitive pricing, with the base price starting at $175 per square foot.
Solaleya Designs
Solaleya Designs offers an affordable, sustainable home with a design that incorporates 90 percent wood construction and cork insulation. Its circular layout maximizes space while improving functionality. Their homes range from 600 to 6,000 square feet. The largest one features three levels and an upper ceiling height of 25 feet. Their domes are constructed with FSC-certified wood and environmentally-friendly cork insulating material.
The Solaleya Designs 20K sustainable house is designed with biomimetic principles, and they meet LEED Platinum and PassivHaus certification standards. Each model features a unique layout, lofty terraces, and the ability to collect rainwater and use it for irrigation.
Rural Studio
Rural Studio, a design-build program at Auburn University, is working to make a more affordable house possible in the South. Since its founding, this program has completed more than 200 student-led building projects in underserved communities in the Black Belt region. Their projects have won the trust of the local community and the attention of renowned architects. Now, the Rural Studio is working to create affordable, sustainable houses that are high-quality and feature universal design principles.
The Rural Studio’s mission is to bridge the gap between knowledge and action in the construction of housing. To achieve this, the organization has produced unique experimental projects. For example, citizen architects have designed one-off houses, and the Front Porch Initiative reimagined affordable housing with models that can be replicated in communities across the South. In addition to building affordable homes, Rural Studio is also advancing its work by expanding its reach to urban areas and establishing partnerships with local housing providers, nonprofits, and national organizations.
The students in Rural Studio’s thesis program were asked to design a sustainable house for a low-income family. Their goal was to make a home that would cost just $20,000 and take three weeks to build. This cost included materials and labor. The goal was to provide a low-cost alternative to trailers and mobile homes.
