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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.

### Overview
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is strategically situated within the rugged terrain of the Himalayas, addressing the needs of trekkers and climbers while respecting the local environment. The design merges functional living spaces with the surrounding natural landscape, emphasizing sustainability and efficiency. It presents a contemporary interpretation of traditional mountain huts, utilizing local materials and promoting a layout that fosters both community interaction and individual privacy.

### Spatial Organization
The hut's design employs a square plan that optimizes spatial efficiency and functionality. It features a zoning approach that separates the living areas from utility functions, enhancing user comfort and hygiene. Key functional spaces include a recreation zone for socialization, expandable living quarters for trekkers and staff, and dedicated areas for kitchens, storage, and eco-friendly toilets. This organization promotes a self-sufficient lifestyle while ensuring adaptability for various occupancy needs.

### Material and Energy Strategy
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to minimal environmental impact and durability. Gabion baskets composed of locally sourced stones form robust walls that harmonize with the landscape. The roof incorporates ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) membrane for light transmission and insulation, along with solar panels and wind turbines for renewable energy generation. A unique Trombe wall feature captures solar heat to maintain comfortable internal temperatures. The three-tier roofing system enhances natural ventilation and energy efficiency, contributing to the overall sustainability of the structure while ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions.

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

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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

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