Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Adaptive shelter crafted from thinned wood and natural stone in the Himalayan landscape

Author:
KOHKI HIRANUMA
Adaptive shelter crafted from thinned wood and natural stone in the Himalayan landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Himalayan mountains, this shelter seamlessly integrates thinned wood and crushed stone construction with a modular design, creating a functional retreat that fosters community while harmonizing with its stunning natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The structure utilizes thinned wood sourced from local forestry management practices, promoting environmental sustainability.
02
Its bent A-frame design not only enhances durability against heavy snow but also facilitates efficient water drainage.
03
Large glass panels are strategically placed to provide panoramic views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape while maximizing natural light.
04
The foundation is constructed with crushed stone, allowing for natural drainage and stability on the mountainous terrain.
05
The modular assembly method enables quick on-site construction and adaptability to changing weather conditions typical of high-altitude environments.
The Forest Hut represents a thoughtful and harmonious integration of architecture and nature, designed to serve as a resilient and functional shelter in the Himalayan mountain range. This project addresses the needs of adventurers and climbers seeking refuge from the harsh elements, while simultaneously emphasizing environmental sustainability and resourcefulness. The design embodies a philosophy of minimal impact on the surrounding ecosystem, showcasing how architecture can coexist symbiotically with nature.

Functionally, the Forest Hut operates as a communal retreat, providing essential shelter and comfort for travelers seeking to explore the rugged beauty of the Himalayas. Its design encourages social interaction among users, fostering a sense of community among climbers and trekkers. By offering shared spaces for dining and leisure, the architectural intent reinforces the idea of collective experience, making it more than just a shelter but a place for connection among like-minded individuals.

The project employs a range of materials, notably thinned wood, which is sourced from local forestry practices aimed at maintaining healthy ecosystems. This choice highlights the commitment to sustainability, using material that would otherwise go to waste, interpreting ecological principles into aesthetic and structural elements. Additionally, the strategic use of crushed stones for the foundation accommodates the ground's natural dynamics, preventing erosion and instability while blending seamlessly into the landscape.

Key architectural details of the Forest Hut include its modular construction, which allows for easy onsite assembly and adaptability. This design approach not only simplifies the building process but also enables the structure to respond dynamically to the changing needs of its users and the challenging weather conditions characteristic of high-altitude environments. The roof, designed with a steep incline, plays an essential role in channeling snow and rain off the building efficiently, protecting its integrity and usability.

The spatial organization within the hut strategically maximizes both functionality and user experience. An expansive communal area is central to the layout, promoting interaction and shared experiences among occupants. The design minimizes partitioning, which not only encourages a fluid movement throughout the space but also allows for ample natural light to filter through, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Large windows offer unobstructed views of the stunning Himalayan landscape, enhancing the feeling of connection to the environment.

Unique design approaches employed in the Forest Hut include the attentiveness to light and air circulation, granting a continuously breathable and pleasant atmosphere. This is achieved through thoughtful orientations of the walls and openings that not only welcome natural light but also facilitate ventilation. Such considerations are crucial for maintaining comfort in a structure set against the backdrop of the unpredictable mountain climate.

Moreover, the hut’s aesthetic conveys a sense of warmth and grounding, with the visible texture of wood providing an organic feel that resonates with its natural setting. This not only enriches the visual dialogue between the hut and its surroundings but also engenders a deeper appreciation for the craftsmanship and local materials that contribute to the overall design.

The Forest Hut stands as a testament to innovative architectural ideas that prioritize sustainability, community, and the natural environment. Its design illustrates how careful planning and execution can yield a structure that complements its locale while supporting the needs of its inhabitants. For those interested in further exploring this project, delving into the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs will provide greater insight into the extensive thought and consideration that shaped the Forest Hut.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy