Sarah Ekenezar

A Home Away from Civilization

By: Sarah Ekenezar

These days, alternative energy sources and a deepening appreciation for the environment have encouraged city dwellers to leave in search of new homes that can make them feel closer to nature. This journey might go toward the off-the-grid route which is a relatively new movement centered around lifestyles that are independent of services and ammenities provided to municipalities, such as electricity, running water, and grocery stores. Additionally, "one of the defining characteristics of off-grid homes is the fact that they’re highly customizable" (Tanksalvala). The abodes gives people more leeway with housing design that would otherwise be restricted by standard housing codes, such as circular domes and tent-like structures. But before people rush to sell their homes in exchange for a self-made one, it is critical to keep the following points in mind. “Many American cities and states have deemed it unlawful for you to entirely remove yourself from the grid” (Erika). So it would be wise to research areas that would permit it in the first place. Furthermore, living in a region with an abundance of at least one key resource like water and a power source, to enable rainwater harvesting or light is fundamental (Erika). The transition to this way of living also doesn't happen rapidly. One way to carefully test the waters is to experiment with extended camping trips and gauge how well you manage with limited resources and socialization. Ultimately, offgrid homes are seen as a project that some people dedicate their entire lives toward customizing and expanding (Tanksalvala).

Catherine King and Wayne Adams are such a couple that live together in a home dubbed Freedom Cove, a secluded area located in Vancouver Island, Canada. Their home is sometimes referred to as “a manmade island,” as it is a collection of connected housing structures that float on a river (Great Big Story) Said river serves as their means of transportation and their connection to the rest of the province (Great Big Story). Their mini island is tied to trees by the shore to prevent it from floating away. The structure also has different sections to feel cozier. “We have our main living house, we have the dance floor, the lighthouse building, four greenhouses” (Great Big Story). King and Adams make use of a large garden and simple tools like hammers and saws to repair items on deck. The collective structure weighs a whopping 500 tons or 1 million pounds, serving as a testament to all of its expansion projects over the years (Great Big Story). It helps that Adams is no beginner in the field of construction, as he made tree forts since the age of seven. “When I go to town, I get landsick,” he Great Big Story said in an interview

With Great Big Story, showing how acclimated the couple became to boat living.

On some days, he hops in a canoe to fish for dinner, usually catching a suitable amount in just ten minutes (Great Big Story). In less favorable weather conditions, he can cast his fishing line from indoors. Living as an artist, he had limited funds and thus prioritized subsistence living with his wife to live well. Their efforts have clearly paid off as their lovely home remains afloat and they continue to find contentment in their Cove.

All in all, off-grid living is arguably the a very sustainable way to make use of limited resources, but also requires a deep commitment and effort that may require extreme levels of patience from the average person. The couple’s lifestyle is quite fascinating to observe for that reason. Works Cited Erika. “Off grid living: 12 things you must know in 2022.” Gokce Capital. https:// gokcecapital.com/off-grid-living/

“Off the Grid on a Homemade Island.” 8 Aug. 2016. Great Big Story. https:// www.youtube.com/watch?v=z9WWzbzevTA

Tanksalvala, Sarah. "Finding peace and purpose off the grid." Forbes. https:// www.forbes.com/hsbcpersonaleconomy/ finding-peace-and-purpose.html