Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Bamboo Panels and Snow-Resistant Design in a Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Filomena Visone, Adrian Eugen Cornea
Bamboo Panels and Snow-Resistant Design in a Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with sustainable bamboo panels and designed to withstand harsh alpine conditions, the hut serves as a communal retreat for both trekkers and locals seeking refuge in the mountains.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced bamboo panels for sustainability.
02
Incorporates a rainwater recycling system tailored for the mountainous environment.
03
Features large operable windows to maximize natural light and ventilation.
04
Utilizes prefabricated components for efficient assembly in remote locations.
05
Designed with snow-resistant angles to minimize weather-related impacts.

### Overview

The project is a multifunctional hut located in a remote mountainous landscape characterized by rugged peaks and expansive snowfields. It is designed to integrate effectively into this extreme environment while addressing the needs of both visitors and local inhabitants. The concept draws from traditional mountain dwellings and modern architectural practices, emphasizing sustainability, local craftsmanship, and innovative construction techniques.

### Architectural Strategy

The building features a dynamic geometry that responds to the topography of the site, with angular forms that reduce wind and snow accumulation, thereby maintaining structural integrity. The north façade includes large operable panels and skylights, promoting natural light and creating a warm interior atmosphere. The internal configuration includes designated areas for communal activities, such as dining and meditation, while maintaining privacy in sleeping quarters. This arrangement fosters social interaction while ensuring a sense of seclusion for rest.

### Sustainable Materiality and Construction

Materials were selected for their sustainability and local availability. The structure incorporates bamboo panels, metal cladding, and concrete and stone elements, all tailored for the environmental conditions of the site. Notably, the use of thin-film photovoltaic panels ensures effective harnessing of solar energy. The construction method is prefabricated, allowing for efficient assembly with minimized environmental impact, while systems for collecting and recycling rainwater enhance the hut’s self-sufficiency. These design choices underscore a commitment to ecological responsibility and respect for the surrounding natural landscape.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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