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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Create a Sustainable Shelter in the Himalayas

Author:
Scott Lester
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Design Create a Sustainable Shelter in the Himalayas
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Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a modular design, this mountain shelter harmonizes with its Himalayan surroundings while providing a functional space for community gathering and respite.
5 key facts about this project
01
Local stone is utilized for durability and to blend seamlessly with the surroundings.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide fire resistance and a unique aesthetic.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes spatial efficiency and natural light entry.
05
Modular construction allows for rapid assembly in remote locations.

## Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is situated in northern India, designed to engage with the surrounding landscape and cultural context of the Himalayas. The project aims to create a shelter that serves both functional and experiential purposes, reflecting local heritage while incorporating modern materials and construction techniques. This design addresses the need for a sustainable and adaptable living environment in a remote and challenging region.

## Spatial Organization

The layout features a thoughtful arrangement of spaces to enhance user experience. The ground floor serves as a communal area, incorporating flexible zones for activities such as dining and relaxation. The upper level hosts sleeping quarters, offering tranquil spaces with panoramic views of the landscape. Interconnected pavilions further facilitate climatic adaptability and visual continuity with the environment, promoting interaction with the natural surroundings.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are integral to the design, emphasizing durability and local resonance. Local stone is extensively used for its weather-resistant properties, complemented by prefabricated metal components that allow for efficient construction. Geodesic dome structures enhance interior space while optimizing thermal performance. Timber, reflecting traditional building practices, is incorporated for framing and finishes.

Sustainability is a core focus, with renewable energy solutions, such as solar panels, incorporated to minimize environmental impact. This approach not only reduces reliance on external resources but also supports the fragile ecosystem characteristic of the region. The design ensures that occupants can experience a deep connection to nature through intentional exposure and the careful configuration of indoor and outdoor spaces.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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