Seis Casitas: Building a Sustainable Oasis in New Mexico’s Rio Grande Estates

Postcards from New Mexico
5 min readJun 17, 2023

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A home and a homestead. Is it such a radical idea?

Welcome to Seis Casitas, a spirited little haven hidden away like a slice of heaven along the scenic US 60, where weary souls may find solace in our shared reconnection with the land.

We are two road-worn brothers, Scott and Thomas, with a wild dream: to construct sustainable earthen homes for ourselves and our overlooked community in New Mexico’s Rio Grande Estates.

At the heart of our vision are six little houses, or casitas, playfully seeking a happy blend of modern convenience and traditional charm, all in ecological harmony. These casitas transcend personal sanctuaries; they serve as reminders of sustainable living available in the Southwest.

But let us dare to dream bigger.

With the same passion that fuels our construction, we work to build the soil and plant the rain, transforming our semi-arid lands into a colorful oasis that breathes new life into our breathtaking surroundings.

Within our courtyard, native gardens flourish, reaching towards the heavens, crowned by succulent green roofs. These living systems form enchanting havens, providing insulation and extending a warm invitation to local wildlife.

A home and a homestead intertwined.

These are the regular visions we hold in our hearts, and with more hands joined together, we will bring this dream to life on our two acres of rugged paradise.

Welcome to Seis Casitas, where we believe that a home and a homestead are not radical ideas, but rather the new normal waiting to be embraced.

Join us on our journey of rediscovery, reconnection, and regeneration, where the lines between the built environment and the natural world blur. Together, let’s build Seis Casitas into an oasis that teaches us to tread more lightly on our precious Earth.

Our Backstory:
What does it take to find heaven on earth?

Inspired by the insightful principles of permaculture design, we playfully reimagined the modern home from a linear consumer to a regenerative engine for sustainable practices.

As we turned the pages of our exploration, we rediscovered timeless traditions that had captured the collective consciousness once again. Accordingly, we wholeheartedly embraced the whimsical nature of earthen construction.

These enduring practices became our guiding light, leading us through trials and tribulations, until we found ourselves in the rural heart of New Mexico. Rooted in permaculture design and nurtured by resurgent traditions, our dreams found conditions to further flourish.

A willingness to learn, labor, and overcome.

After years spent living in motels and carrying our lives in suitcases, we immersed ourselves in this new way of life. We dedicated over a year of our lives to tent living, fully experiencing the elements and forging a profound connection with the land.

During this transformative time, we welcomed the blessings bestowed upon us by the land and courageously faced the challenges it presented. We understood that true growth required accepting both the good and the bad, navigating the ever-changing landscape, and adapting to its rhythms.

Within the vast expanse of unrestricted land, we found the canvas to paint our sustainable dreams. In the familiar hues of heaven and earth that embody the essence of Southwestern living, we began bringing our vision to life.

Contribution and Impact:
Ooh, baby, do you know what that’s worth?

Your contributions bring Seis Casitas to life, creating shelter for two brothers who have experienced it all. With a campaign goal of $25,000, we aim to construct six casitas on a vibrant homestead, providing affordable housing that surpass the limitations of typical tiny homes. By supporting this transformative project, you make a real difference.

Ooh, Heaven is a place on Earth.

Your contribution extends beyond sustainable housing. Our vision includes cultivating native gardens, creating a serene sanctuary for local wildlife, and bringing a touch of heaven to the environment. These gardens are a testament to the value of your support, nurturing nature’s beauty and enhancing the impact of Seis Casitas. Moreover, our project inspires the Rio Grande Estates community to embrace sustainable practices and realize the potential of collective action.

Join us today and make a profound difference. Become an integral part of our mission to create not just a home and homestead, but a vibrant community at Seis Casitas. Your invaluable support is crucial in bringing this dream into reality. Act now and be the catalyst for positive change that our project needs.

Stay Updated and Stay Involved

In the coming weeks, we’ll share detailed information about our project, including cost breakdowns and the direct impact of your contributions. We’re committed to keeping you informed and involved every step of the way.

Your support is vital in completing the construction of our first casita and preparing the way for the remaining five. Together, we’re creating something extraordinary.

Get ready to embark on this incredible journey with us. Stay connected for regular updates, inspiring stories, and significant milestones. We’re building a vibrant community at Seis Casitas, and your involvement is integral.

Be sure to follow along on GoFundMe, Instagram, Twitter, and YouTube. Stay engaged, stay connected, and be part of this remarkable transformation.

Now It’s Your Turn:
Are you ready to be part of the Seis Casitas community?

Join us today and make a difference. If the principles of earth care, people care, and fair share resonate with you, we warmly invite you to join our cause, regardless of your experience level.

Your active participation, whether through volunteering your time, sharing your knowledge, or contributing resources, is what makes Seis Casitas possible. Together, we can foster the harmonious coexistence of nature and human habitation.

Let’s build Seis Casitas and leave a lasting impact on our community and the environment. Inspired by Belinda Carlisle’s powerful song, let’s work to make heaven a place on earth.

Join us now and become part of this transformative journey.

Our Inspiration:
Belinda Carlisle — Heaven Is a Place on Earth

Heaven on Earth is the second solo studio album by American singer Belinda Carlisle. It was released on October 5, 1987, by MCA Records.

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