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Sustainable Habitat Crafted From Lauze and Sheep's Wool in the French Alps

Author:
Arthur Louis Michel Figliuzzi
Sustainable Habitat Crafted From Lauze and Sheep's Wool in the French Alps

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced Lauze and insulated with sheep's wool, this compact mountain habitat seamlessly integrates with its alpine surroundings while providing a functional retreat for nature enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily with locally sourced Lauze stone, connecting the building to its geological context.
02
Insulated with sheep's wool, enhancing energy efficiency while using renewable materials.
03
Features a flexible mezzanine design that maximizes space within the compact footprint.
04
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to promote self-sufficiency in resource management.
05
Utilizes a dry sanitation system, minimizing environmental impact and supporting sustainability objectives.
S-CAPE is an architectural project located in the Marei de Valley of the Mercantour National Park in the southern French Alps. This micro home is designed to serve as an alpine refuge, focusing on minimalism and sustainability in a natural setting. The architecture blends into the mountainous terrain while offering essential living spaces designed for comfort and practicality. Grounded in eco-friendly practices, S-CAPE prioritizes a low environmental impact and engages with local resources for construction and habitation.

S-CAPE embodies a contemporary approach to mountain living, characterized by its functional layout and integration with the landscape. The structure comprises a living area, kitchen, mezzanine, and dry toilet. The design favors natural light and ventilation, ensuring a harmonious indoor climate. This micro home reflects a thoughtful consideration of site conditions, utilizing the surrounding environment not only as a backdrop but as a resource.

Material Selection and Sustainability Practices

One of the core aspects of S-CAPE is its use of local materials. The primary structural elements include fir and larch wood, renowned for their natural insulating properties, which provide warmth and durability. The façade features Lauze, a local stone that establishes a visual and physical connection with the environment. Insulation is enhanced with sheep's wool, reinforcing the building's energy efficiency. Waterproofing is achieved through EPDM membranes to safeguard against alpine weather conditions, while a natural zinc roof increases longevity.

S-CAPE employs innovative sustainable practices, such as rainwater harvesting for water supply and a dry sanitation system, which minimizes waste and promotes environmental responsibility. The heating solution comprises a wood stove, focusing on utilizing locally sourced materials and reducing reliance on external energy sources.

Architectural Integration and User Experience

The architectural design of S-CAPE is marked by simplicity and functionality. The layout features an open plan that fosters a seamless flow between spaces, optimizing the area available in the compact structure. The mezzanine provides additional sleeping space while maintaining an intimate feel throughout the dwelling. Each aspect of the design is carefully considered to enhance user experience and accommodate the changing needs of its inhabitants.

The orientation of the structure is meticulously planned, maximizing exposure to natural light while ensuring protection from harsh weather conditions. These thoughtful architectural decisions contribute to a comfortable living environment that promotes well-being and connection with nature.

S-CAPE demonstrates how contemporary architecture can effectively respond to environmental challenges while remaining rooted in local context and materials. Its blend of functionality, sustainability, and simplicity makes it a noteworthy example within modern mountain architecture.

For further insights, explore the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that inform this project. Review the details of how S-CAPE relates to its surrounding environment and informs the discourse on sustainable living in alpine settings.
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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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