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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

Project in-detail

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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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
competition now

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