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Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Walls Defining a High-Altitude Shelter

Authors:
eric eberhard, eric eberhard, karina filbry
Charred Wooden Shingles and Bamboo Walls Defining a High-Altitude Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and bamboo walls, this high-altitude shelter leverages local materials and passive heating strategies to ensure comfort and resilience in a challenging environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced bamboo and charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability.
02
Incorporates passive solar heating techniques to optimize energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that blends with the mountainous landscape.
04
Utilizes stone foundations for thermal mass, stabilizing indoor temperatures.
05
Designed for modular expansion, allowing future adaptability to user needs.
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is an architectural project designed for optimal functionality in a high-altitude environment. Located in the Himalayas, it serves as a shelter for trekkers and climbers, providing essential amenities while maintaining a strong connection to the natural landscape. The design emphasizes sustainability, utilizing local materials and energy-efficient technologies to create a comfortable living space that interacts harmoniously with its surrounding environment.

Sustainable Construction Methodologies

The project employs several innovative design approaches, particularly in material selection and construction methods. The use of locally sourced materials, such as wood, bamboo, and stone, minimizes the environmental impact associated with transportation while ensuring that the building blends seamlessly into the mountainous terrain. The incorporation of thermal mass through stone foundations helps regulate interior temperatures, allowing occupants to maintain comfort during extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, the integration of photovoltaic panels on the roof harnesses solar energy, making the hut partially self-sufficient.

User-Centric Design Features

Space organization within the hut is thoughtful and pragmatic. The layout consists of communal and private areas that encourage social interaction while providing necessary privacy. Key spaces include a communal dining area, individual sleeping quarters, and a kitchen that supports both cooking and social gatherings. Large windows and open interiors enhance natural light and offer panoramic views of the surrounding mountains, reinforcing the connection to nature. The architectural design prioritizes thermal efficiency and ventilation, using passive solar strategies to maintain a stable indoor climate without relying heavily on mechanical heating systems.

In summary, the Himalayan Mountain Hut is a well-considered architectural project that demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and user-centric design. By focusing on local materials and energy efficiency, it effectively addresses the challenges of high-altitude living while promoting a sense of place and connection to the environment. For further details, please explore the project presentation, including the architectural plans and sections that offer deeper insights into its design processes and ideas.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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