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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a High-Altitude Shelter

Authors:
Anna Głąbicka, Magdalena Grzegorzewska
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels in a High-Altitude Shelter

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, the design seamlessly integrates a sustainable shelter into the Himalayan landscape, providing trekkers and climbers with a refuge that prioritizes safety and community.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally-sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce construction time and improve structural integrity.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize snow shedding in high-altitude conditions.
04
Features solar panels for energy efficiency, promoting sustainability in a remote location.
05
Includes communal spaces that foster social interaction among visitors while maintaining privacy.

### Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut, known as "Breath," is designed as an architectural refuge within the stunning environment of the Himalayas, specifically in areas such as Langtang National Park and Sagarmatha National Park. The project intends to serve trekkers and climbers while promoting sustainable living in harmony with the natural surroundings. Its design draws inspiration from the region's topography and cultural context, integrating functional living spaces with ecological considerations.

### Spatial Strategy and Functional Design

The hut's architecture utilizes interlocking forms that reflect the contours of the landscape, creating an angular façade that aligns with the rugged mountainous terrain. Key functional areas include communal spaces, such as dining and social areas, complemented by private quarters for rest. The layout promotes social interaction among visitors while ensuring solitude when desired. Detailed functional diagrams illustrate the balance between private and communal zones, optimizing the user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A significant focus of the project's material strategy is sustainability and local sourcing. While specific materials have not been enumerated, the design likely incorporates reinforced concrete for structural stability, glass panels to maximize natural light, and timber for warmth and aesthetic comfort. Additionally, the structure integrates photovoltaic panels for renewable energy, reflecting a commitment to sustainable energy solutions in remote locations. The use of durable materials and modern technology underscores a proactive approach to environmental challenges, ensuring resilience against weather variations and geological threats in the region.

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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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