Eco-Friendly Homes You Could Own
Conscious living goes far beyond everyday sustainable practices. You can absolutely recycle, compost, and switch to an electric vehicle, but at the end of the day, eco-friendly living means supporting designers, builders, and manufacturers going the extra mile to incorporate earth-friendly materials and operations into their homes. Just in time for Earth Day, these luxurious eco-friendly houses really pay it forward.
Haiku, Hawaii, United States
Mino McLean & Sam Utley– Island Sotheby’s International Realty
This Hawaiian retreat offers up a slice of the good life for both its inhabitants and the planet. A 1,152-square-foot aquaponic greenhouse makes farm-to-table living a reality, while the four-bedroom main house and accompanying cottage are powered by photovoltaic systems complete with two Tesla Powerwall backup batteries. A forest full of fruit trees, grounds abounding with free-range chicken and ducks, and an established beehive designate this property an organic oasis.
Rancho Santa Fe, California, United States
Jenna Daley, Criss Crozier, & Andrea Gilbert– Pacific Sotheby’s International Realty
A true Mexican-style ranch, this custom compound abounds with entertaining spaces and indoor-outdoor living areas that truly make use of the temperate California climate. Across 15,000 square feet of single-story living, you’ll find reclaimed wood in the saloon, a hand-hammered tin ceiling in the theatre, and Spanish-influenced decor. This home pairs classic influences with contemporary eco-design: outside, drought-resistant plants are a thoughtful water-saving feature, and the main residence draws its power from two sets of solar panels.
Amandara, Terres Basses, St. Martin
Lesley Reed– St. Martin Sotheby’s International Realty
Panoramic ocean views and open-plan living get an environmental boost from an extensive solar system, graywater system, rainwater storage, and Energy Star appliances at this gorgeous St. Martin villa. Located on a bluff on the French side of the island, you can enjoy spectacular vistas from the infinity pool, outdoor terrace, or from one of the villa’s open-air baths.
Braganca Paulista, São Paulo, Brazil
Bossa Nova Sotheby’s International Realty
The enviable modern design of this São Paulo property could easily draw attention away from its redeeming eco-innovations: automation technology, an artesian well, a sprinkler system, solar heating for the pool, water filters, and an energy generator keep this condominium an off-grid masterpiece. The house integrates natural landscaping as well, placed on the edge of a preserved forest area and a neighboring vineyard.
Hietzing, Vienna, Austria
Dali Shoval– Austria Sotheby’s International Realty
Situated in one of Vienna’s most popular areas, this Hietzing townhouse has been newly built with eco-tech as a top priority. Integrations include solar batteries to cover heating, water, and the swimming pool; a gas boiler; EIB/KNX installations; rolling shutters; triple insulation controlled ventilation; and fan coil air conditioning. Light is used precisely across four floors in fantastic contemporary style. A rooftop terrace offers 360-degree views of the city.
Finca Los Rosales, Malaga, Spain
Elena de Miguel– Kristina Szekely Sotheby’s International Realty
Artful harmony with nature rules this Malaga home. Marble, Iroko wood, and stainless steel are interspersed throughout, while the pool, under-floor heating, and water systems are powered by solar energy. Double-glazed windows manage sun exposure and an eco-smart cleaning system ensures the garden pool is always well maintained. Mountain views; incredible grounds dotted with fruit trees, olive oaks, and mature gardens; and a contemporary design capped off by a gorgeous architectural steel and glass stairway make this home a must-see.
Papeete, Tahiti, French Polynesia
Jacques Menahem– French Polynesia Sotheby’s International Realty
Four levels of sublime mountainside architecture are complemented by natural ferns and palms, solar panels, a vegetated roof terrace, and ample outdoor deck space. Inside, nature is reflected throughout the concrete, wood, and complementary greenery. Take a dip in the lap pool or just relax and lose yourself in the vast openness of this property while still feeling perfectly at home.
Menorca, Spain
Palma Sales Team– Mallorca Sotheby’s International Realty
Live a country idyll in a tranquil finca equipped with modern upgrades. Central heating, a private well, solar panels, a windmill, and a standby generator keep things running so you can relax by a beautiful stone fireplace, take in the sunset from the patio, or relax in the pool. Wood beams and farmhouse architecture make this home the perfect spot for a traditional siesta, while the property’s farming license will appeal to eco-mindful homesteaders.
Gydnia, Pomeranian, Poland
Poland Sotheby’s International Realty
Watch the sea ebb and flow from a modern penthouse designed with the earth in mind. Business space below cuts commute time while the two-story living space offers respite from busy work days via a scenic terrace and clean, contemporary designs. Solar panels cover water heating, modern glass regulates light, and above-standard insulation warms winter days with little effort so you can focus on enjoying the view.
Ready to do better, every day? Make your eco-initiatives effortless by investing in a home that conserves, integrates, and evolves over time.