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Circular Shelter Constructed with Local Stone and Timber for Mountain Communities

Authors:
Rajesh Neupane, Joanna Begleri, Kabindra Shrestha
Circular Shelter Constructed with Local Stone and Timber for Mountain Communities

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced stone and timber, this circular hut offers a sustainable shelter for trekkers while seamlessly integrating with the alpine landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced stone for durability and environmental harmony.
02
Features a circular layout that minimizes wind exposure and enhances stability.
03
Incorporates large windows to maximize natural light and outdoor views.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame design for improved structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
05
Promotes community engagement by integrating shared spaces for social interaction.

### Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is situated in a challenging alpine environment, designed to address the specific climatic conditions while providing functional living spaces. This structure reflects a commitment to sustainable practices and integrates harmoniously with its surroundings, serving both trekkers and the local community. The intent behind the design is to create a practical and inviting shelter that promotes interaction and engagement among users.

### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout is centered around a minimalist approach, characterized by circular and organic forms that promote efficient use of space. This design features concentric forms that delineate distinct functional areas, enhancing usability while fostering a cohesive spatial experience. Central to the hut's design is a hall that connects a kitchen, dining area, and multiple bedrooms, facilitating communal interaction. The open flow between these areas encourages social engagement, while the circular layout minimizes exposure to harsh winds and optimizes sunlight for natural heating.

### Material Selection

The material palette is integral to the hut's performance and aesthetic, focusing on local and sustainable resources. Local stone is prominent in the exterior, offering durability against harsh weather and blending with the natural landscape. Wood serves as the primary material for structural support and cladding, providing warmth and aiding in thermal insulation. The inclusion of large glass windows enhances connection to the external environment, optimizing natural light and offering expansive views. A sloped metal roof ensures effective water drainage and prevents snow accumulation, addressing the specific challenges of the region's severe winter conditions.

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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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