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Charred Wood Facade and Polycarbonate Panels in a Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Author:
Gregor Ilnikar
Charred Wood Facade and Polycarbonate Panels in a Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood and polycarbonate panels, this sustainable mountain shelter incorporates passive ventilation and renewable energy systems to provide a resilient refuge in the extreme Himalayan environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design maximizing interior space and natural light.
04
Utilizes polycarbonate panels for panoramic views and passive solar heating.
05
Integrates renewable energy systems, including a wind turbine and solar panels.

## Project Overview

The Mountain Hut is situated in the Himalayan region, designed to respond to the challenges of its environmental context while providing functional shelter. This prefabricated structure incorporates sustainable technologies and material choices, reflecting a commitment to ecological integrity and modern architectural principles.

### Spatial Dynamics and Functionality

The interior layout features adaptable spaces that accommodate a variety of activities. A dormitory area on the first floor can house up to 12 guests, fostering social interaction through common areas. Dining and cooking facilities are designed for communal gatherings, ensuring convenient access to necessary resources. The second floor offers lofted sleeping spaces and storage solutions, maximizing usability without sacrificing comfort. Key features include panoramic windows that connect indoor environments with the natural landscape and adjustable roof elements that enhance structural adaptability while accommodating maintenance needs.

### Materiality and Sustainable Features

The choice of materials emphasizes both durability and environmental compatibility. Highland larch timber serves as the primary structural component due to its resilience in harsh weather, while polycarbonate panels enable natural light to penetrate the space, enhancing the overall ambiance. Cellulose insulation, composed of a high percentage of recycled materials, significantly reduces thermal loss, contributing to energy efficiency. The incorporation of renewable energy sources includes solar panels and a wind turbine, which work in tandem to provide sufficient power. Additional sustainable initiatives, such as a rainwater harvesting system and strategically placed openings for natural ventilation, further integrate the design with its ecological surroundings, supporting biodiversity through elements like a perforated facade that promotes flora growth.

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

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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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