A phenomenological inquiry of building and living in European Earthship homes

Booth, Colin A.; Rasheed, Sona; Mahamdau, Abdul-Majeed; Horry, Rosemary; Abbey, Samuel; Manu, Patrick; Awuah, Kwasi A.B.; Aboagye-Nimo, Emmanuel; Georgakis, Panagiotis; Prabhakaran, Abhinesh

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.

• Journal Article Type: Article
• Acceptance Date: Oct 11, 2023
• Online Publication Date: Nov 23, 2023
• Deposit Date: Nov 24, 2023
• Publicly Available Date: Nov 24, 2024
• Journal: Infrastructure Asset Management
• Print ISSN: 2053-0242
• Electronic ISSN: 2053-0250
• Peer Reviewed: Peer Reviewed
• DOI: https://doi.org/10.1680/jinam.23.00028
• Public URL: https://uwe-repository.worktribe.com/output/11461166