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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Construction of a High-Altitude Retreat

Author:
Marlene Oliveira
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Construction of a High-Altitude Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a modular design, this high-altitude retreat addresses environmental challenges while providing a functional space for community gatherings and individual retreats.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design to optimize snow shedding and wind resistance.
04
Includes a modular layout, allowing flexible use for community and individual needs.
05
Integrates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.

## Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is situated within the challenging and visually striking landscape of the Himalayas, drawing inspiration from traditional Nepali pagoda architecture. This design focuses on sustainability, cultural relevance, and functional adaptability, aiming to respect local traditions while incorporating modern materials and techniques. The architecture engages with its environment, ensuring resilience against harsh weather conditions while providing a comfortable retreat.

## Material Choice and Structural Response

The selection of materials emphasizes ecological sustainability and harmony with the surrounding landscape. Wood serves as a primary structural element, providing warmth and a natural aesthetic that resonates with the mountainous setting. Extensive use of glass in the façades maximizes natural light and offers expansive views, while photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof contribute to energy self-sufficiency. Additionally, a water collection system has been designed to capture snowmelt and rainfall, addressing the site's specific climatic challenges.

## Spatial Configuration and Functional Versatility

The layout of the hut features a modular design, comprising interconnected volumes that enhance usability and adaptability. This configuration accommodates a range of activities, from individual retreats to community gatherings. The roof is innovatively slanted to shed snow and resist wind, reinforcing both practical performance and sculptural presence in the landscape. These design strategies not only respond effectively to environmental conditions but also foster a communal experience for users, with flexibility allowing for varying interactions and engagements within the natural surroundings.

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

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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.

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

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