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Charred Wooden Shingles Combine With Laminated Timber to Create A Himalayan Mountain Hut

Authors:
Janet Yoon, Hugo Garcia
Charred Wooden Shingles Combine With Laminated Timber to Create A Himalayan Mountain Hut

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles and laminated timber, the mountain hut integrates passive solar design and rainwater management to provide a sustainable shelter for trekkers and climbers in the Himalayas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce weight while providing structural strength.
03
Designed with a bent A-frame to optimize wind resistance and snow load handling.
04
Utilizes passive solar techniques to maximize natural light and minimize energy consumption.
05
Features an integrated rainwater collection system to support self-sufficient operations.
Ranga Pahāda is a mountain hut conceptualized to serve trekkers and climbers navigating the rugged terrains of the Himalayas. Designed with a clear focus on local identity and environmental sustainability, this architectural project merges modern design with traditional influences to create a functional and harmonious structure that withstands the elements at high altitudes. The hut is tailored to offer essential services while promoting a seamless experience with nature.

The architecture of Ranga Pahāda reflects the surrounding landscape, with a form that mimics the contours of the Himalayan mountains. It functions as a shelter, communal space, and resource center, providing sleeping accommodations, kitchen and washing facilities, and storage areas to support human activity in remote locations. The building’s layout encourages interaction while providing private spaces for rest. This design fosters a sense of community among users while addressing their individual needs.

The unique aspects of this project lie in its integration of sustainable practices and adaptive strategies. Ranga Pahāda employs locally sourced materials, which reduce transportation emissions and enhance the structure's contextual relevance. The use of weather-resistant fabrics for exterior cladding ensures durability, while laminated veneers of wood offer strength with lightweight properties, crucial for high-altitude construction. Additionally, the hut incorporates radiant heating systems and efficient insulation, facilitating thermal comfort even in extreme cold. This focus on performance and material efficiency distinguishes Ranga Pahāda from typical mountain infrastructures.

Specific architectural elements further enhance the project’s functionality. For instance, the hut utilizes passive solar techniques to manage energy requirements throughout different seasons. The design incorporates careful water management strategies, such as rainwater collection and snow melt systems, ensuring a reliable water supply. Storage areas are designed to house necessary resources, allowing the hut to operate independently and efficiently. The overall architecture adheres to a net-zero energy strategy, actively minimizing the environmental impact while maximizing user comfort.

The project exemplifies how architecture can respond to the challenges of its environment while promoting sustainability and community interaction. For an in-depth understanding of its various components, including architectural plans, sections, and distinctive design features, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for a comprehensive view of Ranga Pahāda.
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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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