Ecovillages can be found worldwide and can come in many forms – from settlements that utilise modern ecological technology to traditional villages that use age-old techniques. Despite their differences, the one thing that every ecovillage has in common is their objective of forming a community with a shared set of ecological values and sustainable construction.
Communities such as the Witchcliffe Ecovillage – located about 5 minutes south of Margaret River – will typically achieve this goal by starting from the ground up – known as an intentional ecovillage. This type of ecovillage is consciously designed through locally owned, participatory processes to ensure every aspect of the community achieves social, environmental and economic sustainability. Consequently, sustainable construction is at the forefront of every decision that is made in the design and establishment of the Witchcliffe Ecovillage and, naturally, every ecovillage for that matter.
What will the Witchcliffe Ecovillage look like?
Located just south of Margaret River in Western Australia, the development of the Witchcliffe Ecovillage is well under way after more than a decade of planning. The sustainable construction and Stage 1 lot pre-sales began in February 2020 with the objective of creating the most sustainable and fully featured ecovillage possible.
Utilising technological innovation, strong environmental principles and community engagement, the ecovillage will be founded on renewable technologies, regenerative agricultural practices and passive solar and low carbon building techniques.
The community will eventually be home to more than 1000 like-minded residents who are striving to be self-sufficient in renewable water, solar energy and fresh food produce.
The function of the Witchcliffe Ecovillage
The Witchcliffe Ecovillage endeavours to form a community that is socially, environmentally and economically sustainable. Consequently, the common goal that will be shared amongst future residents is to live sustainably, though every resident of the Witchcliffe Ecovillage will have their own unique motivations for achieving this. These values are the foundation on which every decision is made for the development of the community.
How each micro-community will function on a daily basis will entirely depend on the residents that live within that particular cluster. The design of the ecovillage purposefully aims to prosper a healthy balance between a person’s desire for privacy and the innate need for social interaction that a community brings.
The sustainable construction and physical design of the Witchcliffe Ecovillage encourages residents out of their houses to socialise and collaborate with each other. This will be done in community garden spaces and shared communal areas that inspire community growth and involvement.
Tate Construction is a professional construction company based in Margaret River, Western Australia. We have been working alongside the Witchcliffe Ecovillage since its development stages that focuses on sustainable construction and ecological initiatives. Please contact our qualified team today to discuss your upcoming residential or commercial construction project on 0417 991 343, or ask us more about our work with the Witchcliffe Ecovillage.