EARTH SHELTERING

BY – ANUSHKA H MANE
2201016010008
WHAT IS EARTH SHELTERING?
• Earth sheltering is the architectural practice of using earth
against building walls for external thermal mass, to reduce
heat loss, and to easily maintain a steady indoor air
temperature.
 BERMED EARTH – SHELTERED
HOMES
• A bermed house may be built above grade or partially below grade, with
earth covering one or more walls. An “elevational” bermed design
exposes one elevation or face of the house and covers the other sides—
and sometimes the roof—with earth to protect and insulate the house.

• The exposed front of the house,

usually facing south, allows the sun to
light and heat the interior. The floor
plan is arranged so common areas
and bedrooms share light and heat
from the southern exposure. This can
be the least expensive and simplest
way to build an earth-sheltered
structure. Strategically placed
skylights can ensure adequate
ventilation and daylight in the
northern portions of the house.
 ADVANTAGES
• An earth-sheltered home is less susceptible to the impact of extreme
outdoor air temperatures than a conventional house.
• Earth-sheltered houses also require less outside maintenance, and the
earth surrounding the house provides soundproofing.
• In addition, plans for most earth-sheltered houses “blend” the building
into the landscape more harmoniously than a conventional home.
• Insulation, energy, and CO(2) savings.
• Fire protection.
• The reduction of air infiltration within an earth shelter can be highly
profitable.
• Savings of as much 90% on energy costs.
• Wide open spacious atmosphere
 DISADVANTAGES
• The specific architecture of earth house usually leads to non-righted,
round shaped walls, which can cause problems concerning the interior
decoration, especially regarding furniture and large paintings.
• However, these problems can be anticipated during the conceptual design
of an earth house.
• The initial cost of construction, which may be up to 20% higher.
• Increased level of care is required to avoid moisture problems, during both
the construction and the life of the house.
 UNDERGROUND EARTH
SHELTERING
• When an entire earth-sheltered house is built below grade or
completely underground, it's called an underground structure. An
atrium or courtyard design can accommodate an underground
house and still provide an open feeling.
• Such a house is built completely below ground on a flat site, and
the major living spaces surround a central outdoor courtyard.
 ASSIGNMENT
1. CHOOSE A BUILDING IN WHICH EARTH
SHELTERING OR UNDERGROUND EARTH
SHELTERING IS USED.
• WRITE INFORMATION ABOUT THE BUILDING
AND MAKE PLAN SECTION AND ELEVATION OF
THE BUILDING.
THANK YOU