Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber-Frame Design for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Authors:
Beatrice Borsetti, Alessandro Terzi
Charred Wooden Shingles and Timber-Frame Design for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

Employing a design of charred wooden shingles and a modular timber frame, the structure integrates sustainable practices within a functional mountain shelter tailored for climbers and trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Employs charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and fire protection.
02
Utilizes modular construction methods to facilitate assembly in remote locations.
03
Features a central courtyard to encourage community interaction among users.
04
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.
05
Includes large glass facades to maximize natural light and panoramic views.

## Overview

Located in the Himalayas, the project adopts a contemporary interpretation of the traditional mountain hut, drawing on Nepalese cultural heritage while addressing modern requirements. The design aims to create a sustainable and multi-functional space that serves trekkers and climbers, integrating innovative construction practices with environmental considerations. This reimagined structure emphasizes the importance of flexibility and adaptability, ensuring it meets the diverse needs of its users.

### Spatial Configuration

The design incorporates interconnected modules arranged around a central courtyard, promoting social interaction among visitors while preserving private areas. This configuration enhances functionality and aesthetic appeal, with varying heights that provide engaging vistas of the surrounding mountains. By establishing a dynamic sequence of spaces, the architecture fosters a sense of community within the structure, reflecting the social nature of its occupants.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The project prioritizes sustainable material choices that enhance efficiency and durability. A timber frame serves as the primary structural element, optimizing weight and stability while reinforcing local building traditions. The exterior is clad in lightweight aluminum, offering protection against harsh weather conditions. Glazed facades facilitate natural lighting and stunning views, while insulation panels address thermal control in extreme climates. Additionally, integrated solar panels harness renewable energy, further contributing to the building's reduced carbon footprint. Water collection systems complement these sustainable features, ensuring the design functions responsively within its environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy