Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Form a Sustainable Shelter in the Himalayas

Author:
Ruben Donatone
Charred Wooden Shingles and Local Stone Form a Sustainable Shelter in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and locally sourced stone, the structure blends seamlessly into the Himalayas while providing reliable shelter for trekkers and climbers facing the elements.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone for structural integrity and aesthetic harmony with the landscape.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles to enhance durability and fire resistance while reflecting local traditions.
03
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient construction and superior insulation properties.
04
Includes integrated passive heating solutions through strategic orientation and window placement.
05
Design emphasizes communal spaces for interaction while maintaining private sleeping areas for occupants.

## Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is strategically positioned within the Himalayan landscape, designed to serve trekkers and climbers seeking shelter from harsh environmental conditions. The intent of the project is to create a functional and sustainable refuge that harmonizes with its ecological and cultural context. By focusing on local materials and traditional elements, the design aims to minimize its environmental footprint while providing a welcoming space for visitors.

## Spatial Configuration and Community Engagement

The spatial arrangement of the hut encourages both communal interaction and individual privacy. Communal areas are designed to foster social engagement among users, while private sleeping compartments offer respite. This dual approach not only accommodates the diverse needs of occupants but also facilitates the exchange of experiences, aligning with the traditions of mountain hospitality. The layout establishes a balance between active and passive zones, enhancing the overall experience of the mountain environment.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to durability and environmental responsibility. Locally sourced stone provides foundational strength, while wooden shingles on the roof offer thermal insulation, linking the structure aesthetically and functionally to local architectural practices. The use of double glazing in windows enhances thermal efficiency and comfort. Thick insulated walls and vapor barriers are integral to maintaining stable internal temperatures and controlling moisture levels, ensuring a comfortable environment for occupants. Additionally, the integration of solar panels and waste management systems underscores a focus on sustainability, reinforcing the hut's role as a model for future structures in similar settings.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy