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Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaics Define Sustainable Shelter Amid Himalayan Peaks

Authors:
Rumena Trendafilova, Pavel Pavlov, Jonathan Lowes
Charred Wooden Shingles and Photovoltaics Define Sustainable Shelter Amid Himalayan Peaks

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and aluminum roofing, the design creates a durable, energy-efficient shelter that integrates seamlessly into the Himalayan landscape, serving as a comfortable retreat for travelers along the Great Himalayas Trail.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance in a mountainous environment.
02
Features cross-laminated timber panels for efficient structural support and thermal performance.
03
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to optimize natural ventilation and reduce wind resistance.
04
Designed with large triple-glazed windows to maximize views while minimizing heat loss.
05
Equipped with integrated photovoltaic panels to support energy self-sufficiency in remote locations.

### Project Overview
Located along the Great Himalayas Trail in Nepal, the design responds to the needs of adventurous travelers seeking shelter during their expeditions. It integrates local cultural elements with contemporary architectural practices, aiming to create a space that acknowledges the unique geographical and historical context of the Himalayas. The conceptual framework draws inspiration from local traditions and the myth of Shambhala, emphasizing a relationship between architecture and nature while fostering a sense of community.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout
The building's spatial organization is centered around a communal core, reflecting the communal essence of traditional Himalayan dwellings. This core serves as a hub for social interaction, promoting storytelling and fostering connections among visitors. Surrounding living units are arranged in a circular pattern, offering privacy while maintaining views of the surrounding landscape. The layout is designed to balance communal engagement with individual comfort, reflecting the dual needs of privacy and interaction inherent to the user experience.

### Materiality and Construction Techniques
Construction utilizes locally sourced materials to ensure environmental compatibility and functional resilience. The roofing, made of black aluminum panels, integrates with the natural surroundings while minimizing environmental impact. Heavy-duty insulation materials are employed to enhance thermal performance in harsh climatic conditions. Solar panels are incorporated into the roof design, promoting self-sufficiency and commitment to sustainability. The use of timber in the interior framing highlights local craftsmanship, creating warmth and inviting spaces throughout the building.

### Environmental Sustainability
Sustainability is a core focus, with features such as geothermal heating systems that reduce reliance on external energy sources while maintaining comfort during cold months. The inclusion of triple-glazed windows aids in energy efficiency by minimizing heat loss and maximizing views. The design not only supports local economies through the use of community-based building practices but also weaves cultural craftsmanship into the architectural narrative. As a result, the structure emerges as a thoughtful manifestation of sustainable design principles harmonized with the stunning Himalayan environment.

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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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