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Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create Resilient Shelter in High-Altitude Terrain

Authors:
Lusan Nakarmi, Roshan Kumar Gho Shrestha, Soval Krishna Nyachhyon, Suraj Maharjan
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Create Resilient Shelter in High-Altitude Terrain

Project in-detail

Employing locally sourced stone and charred wooden shingles, the design offers a robust and thermally efficient shelter for trekkers navigating the challenges of high-altitude environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone and charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability in extreme weather.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for efficient thermal insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural performance and snow shedding.
04
Designed to accommodate up to 20 trekkers, promoting communal living in a high-altitude context.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through the use of regional materials and environmentally sensitive construction methods.
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is an architectural project designed to serve as a shelter for trekkers in the high-altitude environment of the Nepalese Himalayas, specifically the Paldor base camp in the Dhading district. This structure integrates modern design principles with local materials, offering essential lodging while fostering community among its occupants. The architecture prioritizes thermal comfort and resilience against harsh weather conditions, thereby meeting the functional requirements of its intended use.

Sustainable design is a core principle of this project, employing regionally-sourced materials and practices that align with the local ecosystem. The hut accommodates up to 20 trekkers, providing private sleeping quarters, communal dining areas, and shared lounge spaces. The layout facilitates social interaction while ensuring privacy, which is crucial for the overall user experience in mountainous terrains.

Unique Design Approaches

The architectural design embodies a modern aesthetic while drawing inspiration from the traditional building methods of the region. The use of local stone and wood integrates the hut into the surrounding landscape. The sloped rooftops are engineered to manage snow loads effectively, addressing the climatic challenges inherent to high-altitude environments. Large windows maximize natural light and offer expansive views of the mountains, enhancing the connection between occupants and their environment.

A pivotal element of the design is the emphasis on thermal insulation and ventilation, utilizing advanced materials that provide comfort in extreme conditions. This project also incorporates sustainable practices, minimizing environmental impact while maximizing energy efficiency. The adaptability of the design is noteworthy, as it can be replicated in various Himalayan locations, making it a viable solution for enhancing trekking infrastructure across the region.

Functional and Technical Elements

The architectural plans for the Himalayan Mountain Hut include detailed layouts illustrating the functional zones of the structure. Key areas include private bedrooms with bunk beds, designed for efficient space utilization, a reception area, and a communal dining hall. The integration of local materials—stone for thermal mass and wood for aesthetic warmth—contributes to the overall durability and comfort of the hut.

Attention to detail is evident in the project’s technical sections, which outline foundation designs that accommodate moisture control and provide structural stability on uneven terrain. Various wall compositions are specified to achieve necessary insulation and damp proofing, aligning with the hut's sustainability goals. Furthermore, the design ensures adequate ventilation and natural lighting through strategically placed openings, which are essential for maintaining indoor air quality.

Through this project, the Himalayan Mountain Hut illustrates a thoughtful balance between architectural functionality and environmental sensitivity. For those interested in a deeper understanding of the project’s architectural ideas, plans, and sections, further exploration of the project presentation is encouraged to gain comprehensive insights into this design.
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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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