Living "off the grid" is an attractive option for those who prefer to be completely self-sustaining, and who want to break away from established institutions and traditions. Living a life where you produce your own electric power, drink the freshest water and, at times, grow your own food, does not equate to sacrificing luxury living. As you'll see below, quite the opposite is true.
Build Your Ideal Living Space
Housing options for living off the grid are plentiful, but most of them include downsizing in one way or another. However, a smaller house and simpler life, does not necessarily mean less luxurious. You can really go as elaborate or minimalistic as you want, but there obviously are benefits to having a compact and efficient home: a small-scale house allows you to get off the grid faster, and to remain prepared in case of any emergency situation.
Those who need a more palatial home can choose to build a spacious home or, perhaps, a multi-room farmhouse. Larger homes are more desired by people who are doing the half-on, half-off grid lifestyle, also known as modern off-grid living. Larger homes are more costly to build and maintain, but if you can afford it, there are some captivating options available.
Select Fresh Water and Solar Panels
Once you have your house built or purchased, make sure you have a way to harvest water. Setting up a system to bring running water into to your luxury house is critical. Gathering rainwater in large catchment containers may be a viable option for you.
Also, setting up a way to harness electricity is a crucial step to living off the grid. The three most popular options are solar panels, a wind turbine, or a hydroelectric power generator. Solar power tends to be the most popular option of the three when it comes to off-grid energy. Because sunlight is a free renewable resource (in other words, has an unlimited supply), solar panels create an abundance of energy and they require minimal maintenance.
Create Your Own Culinary Haven
Having your own garden and growing your own food can be one of the easiest ways to become independent from the system. It also allows you to experience clean eating as well as clean, luxury living. Fresh produce at your fingertips.
Celebrate off the grid with friends. Live longer and healthier. And happier.
Opt For The Modern Off-Grid Lifestyle
An off-grid lifestyle might be the best option for you, and if you don’t want to completely “rough it,” another option is to live half on and half off the grid.
The modern off-grid lifestyle is probably the most popular option for living off the grid. This lifestyle provides most modern luxury conveniences, using technology to remain self-sustaining.
All images courtesy of Christie's International Real Estate
