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Charred Wooden Shingles and Fiber-Reinforced Concrete in a Sustainable Mountain Lodge

Author:
Andrew Karpov
Charred Wooden Shingles and Fiber-Reinforced Concrete in a Sustainable Mountain Lodge
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Crafted with charred wooden shingles and fiber-reinforced concrete, the sustainable lodge harmonizes with its Himalayan setting while providing efficient accommodation for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for improved insulation and structural performance.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes space and minimizes snow accumulation.
04
Includes solar panels to ensure energy efficiency and sustainability in a remote location.
05
Accommodates up to 20 guests while promoting communal living through open-plan spaces.

### Overview

Located in the Himalayan mountains, the Mountain Hut project draws on traditional design principles while integrating modern construction technologies to reflect the architectural heritage of Nepal. The intent is to provide a compact, functional space for both tourists and residents, accommodating up to 20 individuals with a focus on sustainable living. The design showcases respect for local aesthetics, reinforcing the connection between architecture and its natural environment.

### Architectural Aesthetic and Material Strategy

The architectural approach fuses modern and traditional stylistic elements, utilizing wooden siding, decorative beam structures, and sloped roofs. The façade features earthy tones that resonate with the surrounding landscape, while the gabled roof with overhanging eaves is designed to withstand harsh weather conditions. Key materials include Structural Insulated Panels (SIP) for high insulation and efficient construction, fiber-reinforced concrete for enhanced durability, and locally sourced timber to accentuate the rustic character of the hut.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The layout is carefully designed to optimize space and enhance user experience. The first floor includes communal areas such as a kitchen, dining room, restrooms, and a utility area arranged in an open-plan format, fostering interaction among guests. A welcoming porch serves as a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. The second floor accommodates bedrooms, utilizing bunk beds to maximize occupancy while ensuring privacy. Centralized stairs and wide hallways facilitate efficient access and circulation throughout the hut.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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