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Cellular Huts With Green Roofs and Local Stone Integration in the Himalayas

Authors:
Claryl Chan, Wei Ni Lim
Cellular Huts With Green Roofs and Local Stone Integration in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

Modular huts constructed from local stone and timber with green roofs provide sustainable shelter in the challenging Himalayan environment, designed for both individual retreat and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular huts designed with cellular structures enable adaptable arrangements for varied user needs.
02
Green roofs contribute to local ecosystem balance while enhancing thermal performance.
03
Construction utilizes local stone to minimize environmental impact and promote regional aesthetics.
04
Each unit incorporates photovoltaic panels for sustainable energy generation in remote locations.
05
Large glazing elements provide panoramic views, fostering a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

### Overview of Mountain Huts in the Himalayan Region

Located within the Himalayan region, the project involves the design of adaptable mountain huts that aim to blend with the diverse and rugged topography. These huts are constructed using modular cellular structures that allow for efficient assembly and flexibility in response to the unique requirements of adventurers in this remote area. The design emphasizes a communal approach, with spatial configurations that support both individual and group activities.

### Material and Construction Strategy

The proposed huts utilize local, sustainable materials that enhance ecological compatibility. Key materials include timber for flooring, which provides warmth, and locally sourced stone, minimizing transportation impacts. Triple-glazed windows enhance thermal insulation, crucial for the region's harsh climate. The construction technique employs a hybrid model; prefabrication of structural elements occurs off-site, while on-site assembly incorporates local stone cladding, thus improving visual appeal and thermal performance.

### Energy and Ecological Considerations

A distinctive aspect of the design is the incorporation of green roofs, which not only provide thermal insulation but also facilitate rainwater absorption, supporting the local ecosystem. Energy needs are addressed through the installation of photovoltaic panels as the primary energy source, supplemented by diesel generators for backup power. This commitment to renewable energy and environmental sensitivity underscores the project’s alignment with modern sustainable practices, fostering a connection between occupants and their natural surroundings.

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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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