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Bamboo Walls and Biogas Systems for Sustainable High-Altitude Living

Author:
Jannah Lyn Dela Cruz
Bamboo Walls and Biogas Systems for Sustainable High-Altitude Living
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Constructed with bamboo walls and incorporating biogas systems, the design emphasizes sustainable living at high altitudes, providing essential amenities for climbers and support personnel.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed for high-altitude resilience using locally sourced bamboo panels.
02
Features a biogas system that converts waste into usable cooking fuel.
03
Employs a rainwater collection system for reliable water supply in extreme conditions.
04
Utilizes adjustable foundational risers to adapt to uneven terrain.
05
Incorporates plant-based insulation for improved thermal efficiency in cold environments.

The design at Everest Base Camp focuses on high-altitude living, with a clear emphasis on sustainability and modular construction. Located in the Khumbu region of Nepal, the project serves as a supportive environment for climbers and personnel, addressing their specific needs while being considerate of the local ecosystem. The overall concept aims to create a self-supporting space that functions effectively within the harsh dynamics of its setting.

Pre-Fabricated Wall System

The project incorporates a Pre-Fabricated Wall System made from Locally Milled Bamboo Wood Panels, which are lined with plant-based insulation material. This setup is designed to provide thermal efficiency, essential in the cold temperatures typical of high altitudes. The bamboo panels, available in lengths of 5.5 to 7.5 feet, allow for quick assembly and transportation, which is crucial in a location where logistics can be challenging.



Structural Support and Roofing

Recycled Metal Adjustable Foundational Risers provide vital structural support. These risers enhance stability and enable adjustments to account for the uneven ground found in the area. In addition, the roof features Recycled Transparent Mirror Polycarbonate Panels, which include built-in solar-powered heating cables. This design choice promotes natural light and warmth inside while ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions. The overall look complements the natural scenery, blending functionality with a contemporary aesthetic.



Water Management and Waste Solutions

Water management is a key feature of the design. A Water Collection and Filtration System uses a Recycled Plastic Rainwater Barrel to catch melting snow and ice from the roof. This collected water flows through a gutter system into a filtration tank, making it available for drinking. Waste is handled through a Micro-BioGas Toilet System that converts human and food waste into BioGas for cooking. This approach fosters a closed-loop system that effectively reduces waste while providing necessary resources.



Innovative Integration

The thoughtful integration of local materials and sustainable systems creates a functional environment geared towards the unique conditions of Everest Base Camp. This design succeeds in meeting users’ needs while being respectful to the surrounding nature. The transparent roof allows natural light to fill the interior, offering warmth and an inviting atmosphere within the modular units.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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