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Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating Create a Sustainable Mountain Refuge with Natural Materials

Authors:
Samantha Marihart, Elizabeth Rae
Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating Create a Sustainable Mountain Refuge with Natural Materials

Project in-detail

Utilizing gabion walls and geothermal heating, the design integrates local stone and reclaimed timber to create a sustainable refuge that harmonizes with the alpine environment while serving as a base for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced gabion walls for structural and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating systems for energy-efficient climate control.
03
Features oversized triple-pane windows that optimize natural light and views of the mountains.
04
Constructed with reclaimed timber, enhancing sustainability and reducing waste.
05
Adopts a bent A-frame design, providing both stability and distinctive visual appeal.

# Architectural Design Report: Talus

## Project Overview
Located in an alpine environment, the Talus project emphasizes sustainable design and environmental integration. The structure draws inspiration from the local geography and climate, using architectural forms that echo the weathered rock fragments typically found in talus slopes. The design aims to create a refuge that offers shelter from harsh weather while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding natural landscape.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The planning emphasizes a thoughtful spatial arrangement that prioritizes user comfort and interaction with the environment. Large operable windows and expansive glass panels frame views of the mountainous terrain, enhancing the sensory experience for occupants. The layout includes essential living spaces, such as a communal fire pit, an open living area designed to foster interaction, and a loft area for additional accommodation. Key features, such as a water installation, promote a tranquil atmosphere, while strategic window placement ensures both natural light and thermal efficiency throughout the interior.

## Materiality and Sustainability
Materials were selected based on durability and local availability, contributing to the building's sustainability goals. Natural stone is used for structural walls and gabion systems, while reclaimed timber features in interior finishes. The roof incorporates solar shingles to facilitate off-grid energy generation, complemented by a geothermal system for heating and cooling. Water management systems collect rainwater, with a capacity of approximately 9,860 gallons (37,324 liters), encapsulating the project’s commitment to minimization of ecological impact. The design integrates advanced technologies with natural resource management to create a cohesive and efficient building.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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