Embracing a Sustainable Lifestyle in Rural Washington
Azadeh Weber, a 44-year-old clinical psychologist, embarked on a transformative journey when she moved from bustling San Francisco to the serene landscapes of rural Spokane, Washington, in 2022. Alongside her husband, who also enjoys the flexibility of remote work, Azadeh sought a lifestyle that emphasized sustainability and self-sufficiency. Their new home, a spacious 9,000-square-foot property nestled on 140 acres, offered the perfect setting for their vision of a greener future. The Weber family’s ambitious project—a 200-square-foot Accessory Dwelling Unit (ADU) built using the ancient rammed earth technique—stands as a testament to their commitment to environmental stewardship and family well-being.
Building a Greenhouse ADU with Rammed Earth
The decision to construct the ADU was not driven by a need for additional living space but by a profound desire to cultivate their own fruits and vegetables. This innovative structure, completed in 2024 at a cost of $40,000, serves as a greenhouse designed to thrive during Spokane’s harsh winters. Opting for rammed earth, an ancient method with a remarkably low carbon footprint, was a deliberate choice to align with their sustainable goals. This technique, reminiscent of structures like the Great Wall of China, utilizes a mix of soil, clay, and gravel, providing excellent temperature stability—ideal for a greenhouse.
The Challenges and Rewards of Construction
The construction process, while labor-intensive and time-consuming, was a rewarding endeavor that deepened Azadeh’s connection to her heritage. With the guidance of her architect father, who had previously worked on similar projects funded by the U.S. Department of Energy, Azadeh, her husband, brother, and two contractors brought the vision to life. The project, spanning about a year with seasonal breaks, involved meticulous planning and physical labor, from mixing materials to compacting walls. The end result, a structurally sound and aesthetically pleasing ADU, became a source of pride and accomplishment for the family.
A Modern, Eco-Friendly Design with Ancient Roots
The ADU’s design seamlessly blends ancient techniques with modern eco-friendly solutions. The rammed earth walls, a foot thick, provide excellent insulation, while strategic architectural elements enhance passive solar heating and cooling. The roof, adorned with transparent polycarbonate panels, allows sunlight to nourish the plants, and a Glauber’s salt system helps regulate internal temperatures. These thoughtful design choices not only support plant growth but also create a serene environment, currently used as a yoga studio where Azadeh teaches online classes.
From Vision to Reality: Growing Food and Wellness
As spring approaches, the Weber family eagerly anticipates the ADU’s primary purpose—cultivating their own food. This space will soon teem with life,Suppplementing their diet with homegrown produce and fostering a deeper understanding of sustainability for their children. Beyond its practical uses, the ADU represents a haven for wellness and personal growth, reflecting Azadeh’s journey of self-discovery and connection to her Iranian roots.
Reflections on Heritage and the Joy of Creation
Azadeh’s ADU project has been a voyage of self-discovery, reconnecting her with her cultural heritage while nurturing a sense of accomplishment. She reflects on the journey with pride, acknowledging minor regrets but emphasizing the valuable lessons learned. Her advice to others considering similar projects? Start small, experiment, and remain patient. The Weber family’s ADU stands not just as a sustainable structure but as a symbol of resilience, creativity, and the joy of transforming a vision into reality.
