Inside a Dutch Earthship:
Sustainable Living in Olst's Eco-Village
”You have to get out of your comfort zone, to create your own comfort zone”
In the Dutch eco-village of Olst, sustainable living and a permaculture lifestyle are at the heart of everyday life. One of the most inspiring examples of this is the Earthship home of Laszlo and Pjotr, a self-sufficient, ecological house built in harmony with nature. For the past two years, they have dedicated themselves to a lifestyle focused on self-sufficiency and a deep connection with the earth, turning their Earthship into a model of conscious living.
The Beginning: Restoring an Earthship to Life
When Laszlo and Pjotr purchased their Earthship, it was far from perfect. Although built with sustainability in mind, the house had been neglected. The roof needed significant repairs, water leaked into the structure, and the natural vegetation on the roof complicated the situation further. The solar panels, essential for powering the home, had to be temporarily removed to allow for the repairs. Despite these challenges, Laszlo and Pjotr saw the potential in the Earthship and embarked on a journey of restoration.
Sustainable Living: Powered by Solar Energy and Nature
One of the most remarkable aspects of life in this eco-village is Laszlo and Pjotr’s commitment to living sustainably. Their Earthship is powered almost entirely by solar energy, and natural heating systems keep their home warm. They source water from a natural supply, and composting toilets help reduce their environmental impact.
Their focus on sustainability extends beyond their own home. In the community, Laszlo and Pjotr grow their own food in a shared garden, creating a true sense of self-sufficiency. Sharing meals with neighbors is a regular part of their life, reinforcing the strong sense of community that comes with living in an eco-village.
Embracing a Permaculture Lifestyle
At the core of Laszlo and Pjotr’s lifestyle is permaculture, a philosophy that encourages working with nature rather than against it. The Earthship itself is a testament to this, built with natural and recycled materials designed to minimize waste and maximize energy efficiency.
The permaculture principles extend to how Laszlo and Pjotr grow their food and manage their resources. They rely on natural systems to sustain their way of life, fostering a deep connection with the environment. This lifestyle isn’t without its challenges, but the rewards—living in harmony with nature and knowing that every action supports sustainability—make it all worthwhile.
The Rewards and Challenges of Earthship Living
Living in an Earthship is unlike living in a traditional home. The care and maintenance that go into such a home foster a deep appreciation for it. Every repair and adjustment is a reminder of the conscious choices that come with this lifestyle.
There are also challenges. Natural elements, like the solar panels and vegetation on the roof, require constant attention. But for Laszlo and Pjotr, these obstacles are a small price to pay for a life that aligns with their values of sustainability and self-reliance.
Experience Life in an Earthship
Laszlo and Pjotr’s story offers a rare glimpse into what life is truly like inside a Dutch Earthship. Through their dedication to sustainable living, they’ve created a home that not only meets their needs but also reflects their commitment to the planet.
Their experience shows that living in an Earthship fosters a deep connection to the home and the environment. It’s a lifestyle that requires effort, but the rewards—a sense of fulfillment and harmony with nature—are worth it. Laszlo and Pjotr’s journey is one of transformation, resilience, and a passion for conscious living.
