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Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Systems for Sustainable Waste Management at High Altitude

Author:
Jannah lyn Dela cruz
Charred Wooden Shingles and Prefabricated Systems for Sustainable Waste Management at High Altitude

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and prefabricated systems, this design addresses waste management challenges in the high-altitude environment of Everest Base Camp, creating a sustainable space for climbers and trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a micro-biogas system for converting waste into usable energy.
02
Features a modular construction approach for flexibility and easy transport.
03
Designed to capture and filter rainwater for drinking and sanitation purposes.
04
Utilizes local materials to reduce environmental impact and enhance integration.
05
Adopts a unique bent A-frame design to withstand harsh high-altitude conditions.
The Mountable project represents a thoughtful intersection of architecture and environmental stewardship within a unique geographical context—Everest Base Camp in Khumbu, Nepal. This architectural design seeks to address the pressing issue of waste management that has arisen from increased human activity in one of the world’s most iconic trekking and climbing destinations. The project reflects a commitment to sustainability and a respect for the surrounding natural environment, making it both a functional and educational framework for users.

At its core, the Mountable project aims to provide a modular, easily transportable solution for waste management and resource utilization at high altitudes. Its primary function revolves around creating dedicated spaces for both sanitation and water management, tackling the dual challenges of limited resources and ecological responsibility. The design accommodates a range of activities typically associated with climbers and trekkers, promoting a culture of sustainability in an area that has been increasingly affected by human presence.

The architectural design introduces a series of pre-fabricated modular components that allow for flexible assembly according to the needs of the site and its occupants. This modularity not only contributes to easy transportation and installation but also creates a customizable environment that can respond dynamically to varying visitor demands. Each component has been carefully designed to blend functionality with aesthetics, utilizing materials that are in harmony with the rugged terrain.

Materials play a crucial role in the Mountable project, incorporating photovoltaics for sustainable energy generation, wooden cladding for warmth and resilience, and reinforced steel for structural stability. These materials are selected not only for their physical properties but also for their ability to withstand the harsh weather conditions characteristic of the Himalayas, ensuring that the design remains durable and functional throughout the climbing season.

One of the project’s innovative aspects is its water collection and filtration system. The roofing structure is designed to facilitate rainwater harvesting, channeling water for purification purposes. This feature addresses one of the key challenges faced by visitors at such elevations—access to safe drinking water. Alongside this, the project includes a micro-biogas system that converts human waste into biogas for cooking, addressing the need for a sustainable energy source while reducing the environmental impact of human activities. Segregated waste collection facilities further enhance the project’s commitment to responsible waste management, promoting environmentally friendly practices among climbers and trekkers.

What sets the Mountable project apart is its holistic approach to architectural design within a vulnerable ecosystem. Rather than imposing on the landscape, it seeks to integrate seamlessly, allowing users to engage with their environment responsibly. By collaborating with local communities, the project demonstrates an understanding of local needs while empowering those who are intimately connected to the region’s natural resources.

The Mountable project stands as a model for future architectural solutions in remote areas facing similar ecological challenges. Its strategies and methodologies could be applied to various high-altitude locations where the balance between human activity and environmental preservation is critical. The importance of education and awareness in fostering responsible outdoor practices cannot be overstated, positioning the Mountable project not just as a structure, but as a catalyst for change in visitor behavior and ecological awareness.

For more comprehensive insights into this project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and specific architectural ideas that guided its design, the project presentation offers a deeper exploration of the innovative elements and strategic approaches that define the Mountable project. Engaging with these resources enriches understanding of how architecture can effectively respond to environmental challenges while enhancing the user experience in extraordinary settings.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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