THE EARTHSHIP PHOTO GALLERY

Above is the photovoltaic equipment including separate AC and DC branch circuit panels, inverter to convert DC to AC, and DC Power Controller to monitor batteries and solar collector panels on the roof. Water filtration system is shown below. Primary filtration equipment is to the left with hot and cold outlet taps. Additional filter for potable water is shown to the right.

Schafer explains structural details to visitors at a recent open house.

Entering the “Recreational Roof”, which can be used as a patio. The domes are exterior surfaces of the circular tire room roofs.

Discussing the magnificent views in all directions. The Estrella Mountains and a high voltage power line are in the background. The dark circles across the parapet wall are bottle bottoms cast into the concrete for accent.

Roof vents in each room are shown here. Counterweighted hatches are constructed to absorb solar radiation. These heated hatches act as wicks to increase air flow in the exhaust stream with a corresponding increase in cooler air drawn in through the “air tubes”.

Robert Schafer relaxes in the living room of the Earthship as he explains details of its design and construction.

The expanded metal deck of the catwalk above the living room provides additional space without obstructing airflow. A circular stairway provides access.

A highlight of the living room is the waterfall. It runs on its own closed loop water system and provides a peaceful and relaxing atmosphere to the entire home.

Solar collectors similar to these from a nearby home will supply Earthship with solar power.

Looking east at the mezzanine level, Schafer’s knack for striking interiors is evident. The concrete column tops were formed using inexpensive landscape pots from a local hardware store.

The leaves in the foreground are full sized banana trees which participate in filtration of grey water along with hundreds of other plants.

The approach to Earthship from the north. Rammed earth tires making up the wall in the foreground were used as a drill for when the construction of the actual residence began.

A view from the west. Notice the opened solar heated hatches at the peak of each room.

The west patio. The retaining wall to the left is of rammed earth and tire construction.

The entrance to the recreational roof. The entrance archway is to the right. This view shows the graceful curves used throughout Earthship.

A view from the south. The geometry of the roof and windows prevent solar heat gain during the summer months, but allow the sun to warm the interior walls in the winter.

Entering the outside door to the master bedroom suite. Roof vents are visible to the upper right. The circular dots across the upper center are bottle bottoms cast into the parapet walls.

This is a schematic diagram of the solar power system for the Earthship.