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A phenomenological inquiry of building and living in European Earthship homes

Booth, CA; Rasheed, S; Mahamadu, AM; Horry, R; Abbey, S; Manu, P; Awuah, KAB; ... Prabhakaran, A; + view all (2023) A phenomenological inquiry of building and living in European Earthship homes. Infrastructure Asset Management 10.1680/jinam.23.00028. (In press). Green open access

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Abstract

Earthships remain a relatively under explored type of sustainable/alternative home. This is the first study to investigate the personal experiences of constructing and living in European Earthship-homes. The aim of this study is to reveal insights into the 'hands-on' practical experience of persons who have constructed their own Earthship-homes; and to also gather insights into the collective experience of these dwellers on the realities of living full-time in an Earthship-home. A phenomenological methodology, using an inductive research approach, was utilised through a qualitative research strategy to solicit insights into the personal experiences of these unique persons. The main themes and sub-themes that emerge from analysis are that anyone from any background can make the shift to building/living in an Earthship-home. However, a mixed skillset and knowledge of building trades, plus a physical and emotional prowess is needed for the long-haul build process, together with access to financial means and/or available materials are critical factors that influence the outcome of the Earthship building. Meanwhile, once constructed, off-grid living in an Earthship-home gives dwellers a greater connectivity with the natural world, raises awareness of consumerism and an enhanced appreciation of human impacts.

Type: Article
Title: A phenomenological inquiry of building and living in European Earthship homes
Open access status: An open access version is available from UCL Discovery
DOI: 10.1680/jinam.23.00028
Publisher version: http://dx.doi.org/10.1680/jinam.23.00028
Language: English
Additional information: This version is the author accepted manuscript. For information on re-use, please refer to the publisher’s terms and conditions.
Keywords: housing recycling & reuse of materials sustainable construction UN SDG 12: Responsible consumption and production
UCL classification: UCL
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS
UCL > Provost and Vice Provost Offices > UCL BEAMS > Faculty of the Built Environment
URI: https://discovery.ucl.ac.uk/id/eprint/10184327
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