The new American Dream: 100K(+ 20) | Starter Home

This home in Australia encompasses a natural backyard water-treatment plant that collects and stores about 800 gallons of rain water. Alongside rainwater, the system collects gray water and naturally cleans it via a “green wall” developed by Kennedy Associates Architects. The water is then recycled through the home to fulfill various tasks. With all of these systems in place, the family is able to collect all the water on-site and recycle it down to watering their plants and flushing the toilet. The space utilized to perform these functions also enables the residents to have a small pool area. Excess storm water is drained into a sump tank and allowed to percolate through the soil naturally. This natural system has allowed the residents to use 75% less fresh water. The only demand on the municipal water system is that which is used for drinking and cooking. According the an article on Dwell, the entire system cost $12,000, but one which has saved them money long-term and reduced their environemental impact in an especially arid climate.