In July 2009, Sandra Burkholder and her family began building an earthship – a sustainable house built out of used tires and pop cans. Called the Darfield Earthship, the home features green building methods, water conservation, organic growing techniques, and renewable energy. The inspiring project also recently won $5,000 in the So Nice “A Better Organic World” contest.
The foundation walls have been formed by ramming earth into old tires, and then covering them with plaster.
The facade was built up, and glass windows installed.
Greywater systems draw used water from the kitchen sink to water and nourish plants growing in indoor beds.
Family and friends pitched in to get the garden established.
Garden beds were delineated all around the house.
Raised garden beds are ideal for planting when base soil layers aren't nutrient-rich.
Hugelkultur mounds dot the landscape, and nourish heavy feeders such as squash, melons, and cucumbers.
This low-impact, sustainable home with its gorgeous gardens is a perfect little retreat in the BC mountains.
