eichelberger architects
Research Structure #2 (Gabion Stone Barn)
“When asked to describe myself in one word I'd say 'caregiver'. To nurture is a huge part of my nature. That's why I love the Ranch, I look forward to the spring and all the babies. I'm the adopted uncle in the neighborhood. To create 'shelter' is a part of that nurturing.”
– Doug Eichelberger
1998 – Gabion baskets
In war and natural disaster situations, emergency housing is one of the first requirements in the lives of survivor/refugee population. Gabion baskets are most often used for erosion control along rivers and streams. The baskets can also be used in a vertical wall structure. Because the baskets are easy to transport and assemble, they can be taken (even by mule) to the most remote locations. The baskets can be filled with rubble from destroyed buildings, then left as is or covered with indigenous mud stucco finishes. The baskets can be arranged into homes or refugee barracks.
Structure features
- Baskets can be filled with stone or concrete rubble
- Baskets are easy to transport to remote locations, where they can be filled with material of choice
- Weight of filled baskets makes for stable floating foundation
