LCG Lantech competed in AHA’s Living Aleutian Design competition. We were the only Alaskan firm selected as a finalist among the 109 international competition entries. Complimenting long-established Aleut principles, the Subsistence House integrates sustainable systems, renewable power, and cultural identity into a modern home mindful of the community. Construction, maintenance and repair costs are kept low with building-block construction and simple mechanical/electrical systems which allow the home to be constructed with local villagers and maintained by the owner or community handymen. The tall, double-envelope structure directs light and heat to the interior, protects windows and entrances from harsh weather, and provides a breezeway environment for the sauna and seasonal food processing. The location kept coolest in the house is the cozy, comfortable sleeping bed rooms. The entire upper floor is an airy, open social environment where the family congregates for eating, entertainment, and conversation. The dirty gear storage (ATV’s, kayaks, equipment) and the mechanical rooms are kept downstairs with exterior entrances buffered away from the living space.
