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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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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.

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Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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