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Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaic Panels in a Multi-Tiered Himalayan Shelter

Author:
Marlene Oliveira
Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaic Panels in a Multi-Tiered Himalayan Shelter

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and incorporating photovoltaic panels, the design offers a sustainable multi-tiered shelter that harmonizes with the rugged Himalayan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
03
Employs a bent A-frame design that optimizes snow load management in high-altitude conditions.
04
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for efficient water resource management in an arid environment.
05
Utilizes large glass facades to maximize natural light and views of the surrounding Himalayan landscape.

## Project Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is conceived as a contemporary architectural response to the environmental and cultural context of the Himalayan region. Drawing inspiration from Nepalese pagoda architecture, the design integrates sustainable principles while addressing the challenges of high-altitude living.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The building's layout features a C-shaped configuration that facilitates both communal interactions and private spaces. This arrangement is intended to enhance user experience by fostering social engagement while allowing for individual privacy. Large glass facades are incorporated to maximize natural light and provide expansive views of the surrounding landscape, reinforcing occupants’ connection to the natural environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A curated selection of materials underscores the project’s commitment to sustainability and local aesthetics. Locally sourced wood serves as a primary structural element and cladding, reflecting traditional building practices while promoting warmth within the interior spaces. Extensive use of glass in the façade enhances transparency and visual continuity with the outside world. The integration of photovoltaic panels on the roof supports energy self-sufficiency, while rainwater harvesting mechanisms are designed to optimize resource efficiency. Additionally, a robust concrete base ensures the building's durability against the region's harsh climatic conditions, facilitating long-term functionality.

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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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