HumaNature Architecture
Honoring and Integrating Human and Nature through Sustainable, Sacred, Regenerative Architecture
303-667-9629 James@HumaNatureArch.com
Earthship Expansion
This interesting project is an addition to an existing Earthship. Earthships were invented by architect Michael Reynolds in Taos, New Mexico and represent one of the lowest-impact forms of building known. The traditional Earthship is bermed into the earth on the North with massive walls made of discarded car tires rammed full of earth. Interior walls are made of cans and/or bottles laid like masonry with mortar filling the space between them. Passive solar gain, thermal mass, and a hallway with planters along it provide heat and indoor gardening opportunities.
Existing South Elevation
Existing Courtyard
The existing Earthship was built with eventual expansion in mind. Here is what the clients called the "Hellway", where they ended their original construction project. You can see the tire walls and aluminum can and mortar arched roof. 
CAD Model of Addition
The addition was designed in the pueblo style, but still incorporates the tire north walls, and bottle and can interior walls. The addition also incorporates passive solar design, thermal mass floors and walls, earthen plasters and other natural materials.
Main Floor Plan
Existing "Hellway" comes in from upper left
Upper Floor Plan
