Integrating technology with nature is smart, as is working in harmony with nature rather than in opposition to it where possible. The earth-sheltered building designs you mentioned are excellent examples. They aren't useful in all climates but they would be terrific where I live: Phoenix, AZ USA. Summer cooling costs could be reduced dramatically and winter heating eliminated altogether.
Only two things are infinite, the universe and human stupidity, and I'm not sure about the former.
Albert Einstein
Albert Einstein