Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Gabion Walls and Bamboo Structure Create a Self-Sufficient Mountain Habitat

Author:
Allan Lopez
Gabion Walls and Bamboo Structure Create a Self-Sufficient Mountain Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed with gabion walls and bamboo, this self-sufficient mountain habitat integrates renewable energy and water management systems to provide an eco-friendly living space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates fog catchment systems for water collection.
02
Utilizes recycled plastic bottles in the water storage design.
03
Features a vertical axis wind turbine integrated into the structure.
04
Employs local stones in gabion wall construction for site-specific aesthetics.
05
Design supports biogas production from organic waste for energy.

## Project Overview

The Mountain Hut is situated in a mountainous region and is designed to function as a self-sufficient living space that emphasizes sustainable energy and water systems. The project prioritizes ecological responsibility by aligning its design with local climate dynamics and resource availability. It serves as a model for responsible architecture, integrating functionality with an awareness of environmental impact.

## Water Management System

The water management system is designed to efficiently harness local resources. It features fog catchment systems that collect moisture through specially installed mesh, enabling the retrieval of water from the environment. Grey water recycling mechanisms have been included to minimize waste and promote sustainability. Infrastructure components have been meticulously designed to ensure optimal operation, incorporating containers for both potable and non-potable water.

## Energy Generation Strategy

The energy generation strategy is anchored in renewable sources. Photovoltaic solar panels are strategically positioned to track sunlight and maximize solar energy collection, while a vertical axis wind turbine adds another layer of renewable energy capture. This dual approach reflects a robust commitment to energy efficiency.

## Material Selection and Spatial Organization

Material selection plays a crucial role in the hut's design integrity, with an emphasis on sustainability. Bamboo serves as a primary structural element due to its lightweight and resilient properties, while gabion walls, constructed from local stones, provide stability and connect the structure to its geological context. Additionally, the interior layout features interconnected spaces that promote accessibility and facilitate social interaction among occupants, incorporating natural light and ventilation for enhanced user experience.

Focal points in the design include stained glass panels and a wooden façade, which create exterior texture and color. Special attention to the cohesive relationship between interior and exterior elements reinforces the hut's integration with its surroundings, reflecting principles of ecological sustainability.

Key innovations include a solar panel tracking system for enhanced energy capture and provisions for biogas digestion systems to manage organic waste effectively. The multifunctional design additionally supports community resilience by fostering social interaction within a framework of renewable energy and sustainable living practices.

### Materials Used
- Bamboo
- Gabion baskets (filled with local stones)
- Photovoltaic solar panels
- Vertical axis wind turbine
- Recycled plastic bottles
- Light steel for framework
- Fiberglass for structural components
- Straw and grass bales for insulation
- Heating elements for snow melting on roofs

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

MICROHOME

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy