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Charred Wooden Shingles and Biogas Systems in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
RODRIGO MATHIAS, HELENA OBINO, MARIA VITTORIA OLIVEIRA, FERNANDO PAAL
Charred Wooden Shingles and Biogas Systems in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

With its charred wooden shingles and integrated biogas systems, the retreat seamlessly combines sustainable materials and modern construction techniques to offer a reliable shelter for hikers in the Himalayas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance weather resistance and offer fire protection.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength with reduced environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes snow load management in high-altitude settings.
04
Integrated biogas systems utilize organic waste for sustainable cooking energy.
05
Open courtyard layout encourages outdoor communal activities amid natural surroundings.

## Overview
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is situated in the mountainous terrain of Nepal, designed to provide a shelter for trekkers and mountaineers. This facility responds to the particular climatic challenges of high altitudes while respecting the cultural and environmental context of the region. The design integrates prefabricated modular structures that facilitate rapid assembly and site adaptability, ensuring the hut is equipped to withstand harsh weather conditions.

## Spatial Organization
The layout of the hut is strategically organized to optimize functionality and community engagement. Main circulation pathways are clearly defined, providing easy access to essential areas such as bedrooms and communal spaces. Support facilities, including a kitchen and storage areas, are positioned for efficient operation. The design features distinct living and gathering spaces that encourage social interaction while balancing the need for privacy. This approach simultaneously incorporates traditional architectural elements with modern design efficiency.

## Material Selection
Materiality plays a critical role in the hut's resilience and sustainability. Key elements include a durable metal roof covering, timber roof structure with insulation, and metal siding that enhances both protection and aesthetic appeal. Triple-glazed windows maximize natural light while ensuring thermal insulation, and electrically heated floors provide warmth in colder conditions. The selection of materials not only contributes to energy efficiency but also creates a welcoming interior atmosphere, essential for comfort in a remote environment. The project exemplifies a coherent alignment of structural integrity with sustainable practices.

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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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