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Bamboo-Frame Retreat Featuring Glass Integration for Himalayan Trekkers

Authors:
Christine Williams, Jeremy Jerge
Bamboo-Frame Retreat Featuring Glass Integration for Himalayan Trekkers

Project in-detail

Employing a bamboo-frame structure complemented by extensive glass elements, the design offers a functional retreat that seamlessly integrates with the Himalayan landscape, catering to the needs of trekkers and climbers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design allowing for easy assembly in remote locations.
02
Incorporates bamboo as a primary structural material, reflecting local building traditions.
03
Features a bent A-frame shape that enhances stability against high winds.
04
Employs rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Maximizes natural light through extensive glass paneling, offering panoramic views.

### Project Overview
Located in the Himalayan region of Nepal, the Pahad Fold integrates modern architectural design with local cultural context. It aims to facilitate the needs of climbers and trekkers while respecting the natural environment. The design emphasizes the relationship between the structure and its mountainous surroundings, creating a space that is both functional and harmonious with its setting.

### Spatial Strategy and Form
The design concept is informed by the topography and tectonic characteristics of the Himalayas, favoring a 'folding' motif that reflects both structural integrity and the layered experiences within the terrain. The angular, tessellated shapes mimic the rugged peaks while contrasting with the valleys, promoting practical advantages against environmental factors. This approach not only enhances structural resilience but also resonates with cultural architectural traditions. The modular design allows for efficient assembly and disassembly, catering to the remote location and enabling adaptability for various uses within the space.

### Material and Sustainability
The Pahad Fold incorporates sustainable materials with a focus on local building practices. Bamboo serves as a primary structural element due to its lightweight strength, while steel frames provide necessary support. Large glazing surfaces facilitate natural light and views of the landscape. Sustainable wood paneling contributes warmth and comfort to interior spaces. The structure employs rainwater harvesting systems and photovoltaic arrays for energy efficiency, alongside thermal insulation strategies that minimize heating demands, addressing ecological concerns while ensuring functionality in a severe climate.

Through these features, the Pahad Fold effectively becomes a practical refuge, enhancing user experience and promoting community engagement, thus contributing positively to local tourism and economic development.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
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