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Gabion Walls and ETFE Membrane Roof in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Piotr Czarnecki, Jędrzej Przyłuski, Alicja Tomaszewicz
Gabion Walls and ETFE Membrane Roof in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with gabion walls and topped with an ETFE membrane roof, the retreat optimizes energy efficiency and harmonizes with its mountain environment, serving as a functional shelter for trekkers and climbers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced gabion walls for structural integrity and environmental integration.
02
The roof features an ETFE membrane that enhances natural light while providing insulation.
03
Incorporates a trombe wall for passive solar heating, optimizing energy efficiency.
04
Designed with modular living quarters to adapt to varying group sizes and needs.
05
Includes renewable energy systems, utilizing solar panels and wind turbines for energy autonomy.
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is an architectural project designed to offer sustainable and efficient shelter in a high-altitude environment. This structure serves as a retreat for trekkers and climbers and aims to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. The project emphasizes functionality and durability, utilizing locally sourced materials and innovative design strategies to address the specific challenges of mountain living.

Sustainable Design Approaches
The architecture of the Himalayan Mountain Hut incorporates several sustainable design elements that differentiate it from typical mountain huts. One of the primary features is the use of gabion baskets filled with local stones, which create structural walls that blend into the rocky terrain. This choice of material not only provides strength but also reduces the project’s environmental impact by minimizing the need for transportation of construction materials.

The roof of the structure is constructed using an ETFE membrane, a lightweight material that allows natural light to filter into the interior. This design choice enhances energy efficiency, effectively reducing the need for artificial lighting during daylight hours. Additionally, the roof incorporates solar panels and wind turbines, facilitating energy independence and promoting sustainable living in a remote location.

Functional Layout and Spatial Organization
The layout of the hut is organized to accommodate both communal and private spaces. The design features a recreational area that encourages social interaction among guests, alongside individual living quarters that provide comfort and privacy. This configuration enhances the overall user experience, making the most of the limited space while adhering to a functional zoning approach.

Another significant aspect of the spatial organization is the provision for a clean zone dedicated to living and relaxation activities, and a dirty zone for utilitarian functions, such as kitchens and storage. This separation addresses hygiene and comfort, allowing for efficient use of space in a challenging environment.

The structural design also includes a trombe wall, which captures solar energy to provide passive heating for the interior, further optimizing energy use and enhancing thermal comfort without reliance on external heating systems. Each design decision has been made with consideration of the extreme weather conditions typical of mountainous regions, ensuring that the hut is resilient and practical for long-term use.

The Himalayan Mountain Hut exemplifies thoughtful architecture that integrates into the natural landscape while offering essential functionality and comfort for its users. To explore further details of the project, including architectural plans and sections, and to gain insights into the architectural designs and ideas that informed its development, the project presentation provides additional comprehensive information.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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