Sustainable Features Abound in this New Mexico Earthship Home

At its simplest, sustainability means making choices today that will positively impact the planet tomorrow. We can recycle and reuse, choose renewable energy, even grow our own produce. But for those really serious about living an eco-friendly lifestyle—and we mean serious—this  Earthship house in Tres Piedras, New Mexico, definitely fits the bill.

Built in 2020, the three bedroom, three-bathroom 2,600-square-foot abode is part of the Earthship Greater World Community, a 640-acre off-grid subdivision just outside of Taos. Over half of the acreage is communally owned and will never be developed. The property itself sits on two acres. Asking price: $850,000.

The home follows architect Michael E. Reynolds’ original model and offers picturesque views of the Sangre de Cristo mountains. Building materials are all natural and upcycled—think dirt-filled used tires (really!) and adobe mud. A metal roof sports solar panels that direct rainwater into buried cisterns.

The house is entirely self-sufficient, thanks to state-of-the-art energy-collecting and water-recycling systems. Estimated annual savings for fundamental needs—gas, electricity, and water—are substantial: $3900 versus $9780 for a comparative non-green property, according to the Earthship Global website.

Homeowners can also grow their own food in the 10-foot-long, flagstone-floored greenhouse.

The house itself was originally designed as two units, each with its own entrance. A colorful glass-studded wall, sourced from bottles, divides the two-bedroom, two-bath space from the studio.

In the larger of the two sides, there’s a light-filled living area with custom bottle brick work, tiled floor and beamed timber ceiling. An eat-in kitchen features aqua-accented wood cabinetry, glass tile backsplashes, and stainless appliances. On the studio side, a second greenhouse is contained within an open bathroom.

Residents are not just buying a home.

They’ll also be part of the progressive Greater World Earthship Community. Lofty objectives run the gamut, from reversing the overall negative effect that conventional human housing has on the planet to providing a direction for those wanting to live in peace with each other and their environment.

All this Zen is just a short drive to Taos. Taos Plaza — a hub for shopping, dining, and gallery-hopping — is just 20 minutes away.

You can also try before you buy. Lonely Planet ranks the property among its Top Ten Eco-Stays. Nightly and longer-term rentals start at $140 per night.

Reviews tell the story. “When you walk through the doors of an Earthship, you are entering a whole new world of opportunity. Prepare to be amazed and intrigued by everything around you. It will completely change the way you see the world you live in.”

Preview the full selection of available Earthship properties.