What’s the idea behind
the concept?
Sixteen students studying ‘Renewable Energy and
Ecological Design’ at the Green Mountain College at Vermont and their professor
Lucas Brown created a small, movable and ecological house that fits the new
American dream. The re-interpretation of the American dream is typical for
generation Y, who prefer a nomadic lifestyle. When they’ve finished their
studies, today’s youngsters don’t want to pay huge mortgages, but instead they
want their own mobile space with very low upkeep. Moreover, they want to reduce
their footprint as much as possible.
How does it look like?
The tiny OTIS-house measures only 6.5 sq m and
can be towed on a standard-sized trailer by any normal car. The pod-shaped
house has a lightweight, sustainable and aerodynamic structure. Inside, there’s
a a table, a composting toilet, a bed, a
system that collects rainwater, a washbasin, a wood-burning stove and a 120W
solar panel that provides electricity.
The idea of having a sustainable and movable
house looks nice and cosy but we think 6.5 sq m is way too small to live in day
in, day out. But, in our opinion, it can be an ideal solution for young people
with a demanding job and an active social life who don’t spend a lot of time at
home. So, is living in an ecological and movable house something for you or do
you prefer living in a ‘normal’ house? For those who are interested: the price
tag is between 8000$ and 10000$.
Do you want more information? Have a look at
the site of the Green Mountain College http://www.greenmtn.edu/news_events/new_releases/otis-a-new-take-on-the-american-dream.aspx, or watch this video: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=11fBm6yoDj8&feature=c4-overview&list=UUvkhvvy2iQRCuw80CuIdOKw
Ann-Sophie, Sofie & Hélène
In my opinion, the OTIS-house looks very cosy and I would love to spend some time in it! It would be a nice and sustainable alternative to caravans for example. On the other hand, I certainly couldn’t live in it day in day out, because it’s really way too small for me.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenWhat a nice and cosy house! As I love travelling and camping, I really like this concept. However, as Sophie already mentioned, it would be a little bit too small to live daily in this type of house.
BeantwoordenVerwijderenOn the other hand, I understand that it is sometimes hard to travel all the time for your work or studies. I'm glad that this year I found a student room in the city centre of Ghent. If I had to go by train to all our classes and group works, it would be a nice solution!
I agree. The OTIS-house looks extremely cosy, but I'd only live in it for a week or two. To me, it's more of a temporary vacation home that you can use for trips where you spend most of the day in the great outdoors.
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