By Ana Lisa, Source: Inhabitat

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Going off-grid and using natural resources like the sun or wind to power your home is one of the modern ways to rebel against the system, and designers are proving that you don’t need to sacrifice comfort or style in order to do so. You don’t have to spend your life in a tent or live in a hobbit house to be completely self-sufficient—in fact, approximately 1.7 billion people are living off-grid worldwide at this very moment. Whether your goal is to reduce your carbon footprint, to save money, to prepare for the collapse of the oil economy, or just to be independent, check out this collection of off-grid retreats – including a sun-powered Alpine capsule and France’s highest building!

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Refuge du Goûter by Group-H

Standing 12,582 feet above sea level, the Refuge du Goûter is a magnificent Alpine refuge by Group-H. Powered by the sun and wind, the stylish Alpine retreat is the highest building in France.

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Alpine Capsule by Ross Lovegrove

Designed to blend in with its environment, the futuristic Alpine Capsule is one of Ross Lovegrove‘s most striking creations. Powered by solar panels and a vertical axis wind turbine, it features a reflecting glass skin that allows inhabitants a magnificent 360-degree view of the landscape.

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Chamfer House by S-Archetype

Created to operate off-grid in any location, the tiny, stylish Chamfer House was designed by S-Archetype. Shaped like a cube and made from eco-friendly materials, it features a bright, open interior that’s perfect for a modern, nomadic lifestyle.

Read the rest at: Inhabitat