Honorable Mention
Gerald
Hightech vs. Lowtech
Authors: Christoph Grabner, Sebastian Brandner
Advisor: Karin Stieldorf, Martin Summer
University: Vienna University of Technology
Category: Building with Ecological Systems
Description
The project is located on land provided by the government in the yurt district of Ulan Bartor, Mongolia. The climate is characterized by little precipitation and bitter coldness. The design is the modern continuation in the development of the Mongolian yurt, modular in typology, consisting of a wood frame and square felt padding of sheep wool. This innovative and conservational use of locally available materials forms the basis of the construction method. An important aspect of the design is the manner of selferection. Basic Mongolian principles for a family are also incorporated. These include the central Mongolian oven, a large communal area, a storage room, and a sleeping level.
Due to the harsh winter conditions, with the ground remaining frozen down to 3m in depth, a below grade infrastructure is still missing. Water is therefore stored at the site. The project also suggests a dry composting toilet. Further technical suggestions to improve the efficiency of the Mongolian oven would consume less heating material, making a contribution to climate protection.
Jury statement
The project is characterized by its careful application of locally available resources and the further development of existing functions.
