World's Greenest Homes Season 2 Episode 7 Pump House

In this episode of World's Greenest Homes, we explore a unique and innovative Pump House located in a remote region of Australia. Designed by architect Glenn Murcutt, the home is built entirely out of locally sourced materials and features a range of sustainable technologies that allow it to operate completely off-grid.

The Pump House derives its name from its main function, which is to pump water from a nearby river to a storage tank on the property. The design of the home is centered around this system and the need to collect and conserve water in a dry climate. The roof of the house is angled to channel rainwater into a series of tanks, which is then filtered and used for a variety of purposes in the home.

The Pump House is constructed primarily out of corrugated metal panels, which reflect the intense sun and help to keep the home cool in the summer months. The interior of the home is open and spacious, with a minimalist design that emphasizes simplicity and functionality. Large windows provide abundant natural light and offer stunning views of the surrounding landscape.

One of the unique features of the Pump House is its use of natural ventilation to regulate temperature. The home is equipped with a series of louvers on the roof and walls that can be opened or closed depending on the time of day and the desired temperature inside the home. This system allows the home to stay comfortable year-round without the need for air conditioning.

Another key sustainable feature of the Pump House is its use of solar power. The home is equipped with a large array of solar panels, which provide all the electricity needed to power the home's appliances and lighting. In addition, the home has a solar hot water system that provides hot water on demand without the need for a traditional water heater.

The Pump House is not only functional and sustainable, but also aesthetically stunning. The use of locally sourced materials and the minimalist design combine to create a home that seamlessly blends into the landscape and seems to emerge from the earth itself. The home is a testament to the power of sustainable design and the ability to live in harmony with the natural world.

Overall, this episode of World's Greenest Homes provides a fascinating look at a truly unique and pioneering piece of architecture. The Pump House serves as a model for sustainable living and proves that it is possible to live comfortably and beautifully while minimizing our impact on the environment.