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Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Elevate Sustainable Mountain Retreat in Nepal

Authors:
James Jones, James Jones, Petrina Moore
Charred Wooden Shingles and Laminated Timber Elevate Sustainable Mountain Retreat in Nepal

Project in-detail

Constructed from charred wooden shingles and laminated timber, the mountain retreat skillfully balances sustainable design with extreme resilience, providing a comfortable haven for adventurers in the heart of the Himalayas.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure features a low-slope valley roof design that collects snow for insulation and water harvesting.
02
Elevated by a post and beam system, the design minimizes environmental impact while providing stability in harsh conditions.
03
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the exterior enhances durability and resistance to weathering.
04
The use of prefabricated components allows for efficient assembly in remote mountain locations.
05
Translucent Kalwall panels provide natural lighting while maintaining privacy and thermal efficiency.
The Himalayan Mountain Hut represents a thoughtful blend of architecture and functionality, designed to meet the diverse needs of travelers and trekkers navigating the challenging conditions of the Himalayan region in Nepal. This architectural project illustrates an understanding of the local environment, integrating sustainable practices with an innovative design that enhances user experience.

The primary function of the Himalayan Mountain Hut is to serve as a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts, offering shelter, rest, and essential amenities while ensuring comfort in extreme weather conditions. The design is modular, allowing the space to accommodate various groups and purposes, including sleeping areas, communal spaces, and cooking facilities. This adaptability is crucial in addressing the fluctuating demands of visitors while ensuring efficiency in operations.

Uniquely, the architectural approach focuses on a pavilion-based structure that emphasizes flexibility and sustainability. The design is elevated, minimizing the building's footprint on the delicate alpine ecosystem while providing stability against snow accumulation and ground shifts inherent to high-altitude environments. This elevation is achieved through a post and beam system made of laminated timber, selected for its lightweight yet durable properties. The foundation is thoughtfully designed to be adjustable, allowing for easy maintenance and minimizing long-term ecological impact.

One of the prominent features of this project is its roof, which adopts a low-slope valley form. This design not only aids in retaining heat but also facilitates snow collection that can be utilized for water harvesting, directly addressing resource availability in such remote locations. The roof is complemented by insulated sheathing that enhances thermal performance, ensuring that the interior maintains comfortable conditions for occupants despite external temperature fluctuations.

Material selection plays a pivotal role in the overall success of the project. The use of Kalwall panels, known for their insulating properties and light diffusion capabilities, allows natural light to permeate the interior without compromising privacy. This strategic choice supports energy efficiency and contributes to a calming atmosphere within the hut. Strip windows further enhance this connection with the outdoors, framing beautiful views of the surrounding landscape while ensuring adequate ventilation.

The interior layout has been carefully crafted to prioritize user experience, emphasizing communal areas that foster social interaction among guests. The flexible spatial arrangement can be adapted to accommodate different group sizes and needs, underscoring the architecture's versatility. The choice of responsibly sourced timber for the flooring and framework not only adds warmth and aesthetic appeal but also contributes to the hut’s sustainable narrative.

Innovation in design extends to the prefabrication of numerous components, which allows for efficient assembly on-site. This method addresses logistical challenges posed by the remote locality and reduces construction time, enabling swift deployment of the structure where it is needed most.

Overall, the Himalayan Mountain Hut stands as an exemplar of modern architectural design, balancing functionality, sustainability, and adaptability. It reflects a deep respect for the unique environmental challenges of the Himalayan region, providing a safe and comfortable haven for those who seek adventure in this stunning but harsh landscape. For a comprehensive understanding of this project, including architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying ideas, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation of the Himalayan Mountain Hut further.
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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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