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Translucent Geodesic Structure With Cross-Laminated Timber and Local Stone for Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Christian Hennemann, Olivia Lees, Anastasia Kriwoscheja, Florian Wiegand
Translucent Geodesic Structure With Cross-Laminated Timber and Local Stone for Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

A translucent geodesic dome constructed with cross-laminated timber and local stone provides a sustainable refuge for mountaineers, emphasizing environmental integration and energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a translucent geodesic dome design for enhanced natural lighting and thermal performance.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber and locally sourced stone for sustainability and resilience.
03
Features a rainwater harvesting system integrated into the architectural framework.
04
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
05
Designed with a modular layout that allows for flexible space utilization and community engagement.

# Analytical Report: The Snailhouse Lodge

## Overview

Located in a rugged alpine landscape, the Snailhouse Lodge serves as a retreat tailored for mountaineers and outdoor enthusiasts. The design is an exploration of innovative architecture that harmonizes with its dramatic surroundings, reflecting a commitment to sustainable living and user experience. Drawing inspiration from natural forms, particularly the coiling structure of a snail shell, the lodge manifests stability and adaptability, fostering a connection between users and the environment.

## Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Snailhouse Lodge is designed to encourage communal interaction while providing privacy for individual guests. A central communal space functions as the focal point, accommodating social activities and fostering relationships among visitors. Surrounding this communal core are private lodging areas, strategically arranged to ensure solitude and comfort after outdoor pursuits. The functional core integrates essential systems such as heating, water supply, and energy generation, optimizing space efficiency while supporting the overall operations of the lodge.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The materials utilized in the construction of the Snailhouse Lodge reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. A translucent geodesic dome structure allows for ample natural light while offering structural resilience in extreme weather. Reclaimed or sustainably sourced timber contributes warmth to the interiors, while local stone elements enhance thermal efficiency and add a tactile quality to the design. Photovoltaic panels and an innovative water collection system further reinforce the lodge’s self-sufficiency, aiming to minimize its ecological footprint and promote responsible resource management.

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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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