Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Circular Shelter Constructed with Piled Stone and Aluminum Panels for High-Altitude Living

Author:
Lucie Kratochvilova
Circular Shelter Constructed with Piled Stone and Aluminum Panels for High-Altitude Living

Project in-detail

Constructed from piled stone and featuring aluminum panels, the shelter provides a resilient and energy-efficient respite for climbers and trekkers in the demanding conditions of the Mount Everest region.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced piled stone, enhancing thermal stability in extreme conditions.
02
Modular design allows for adaptation to varying group sizes and requirements.
03
Aluminum panels provide lightweight protection while allowing natural light into the shelter.
04
Participatory construction encourages trekkers to engage in the building process, fostering community involvement.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roof ensure renewable energy supply, promoting self-sufficiency.

## Overview

Located in the vicinity of Mount Everest, the DIY Everest Shelter project addresses the housing needs of trekkers and climbers navigating a challenging and extreme environment. Designed with a focus on sustainability and community involvement, the project explores practical shelter solutions that respond to the unique climatic conditions of high altitudes while fostering collaboration among users and local populations.

## Materiality and Sustainability

The selection of materials for the shelter emphasizes both environmental responsibility and functional endurance. Piled stone serves as the primary structural element, offering thermal stability in a severe climate. Light alloy rods provide a resilient framework, while aluminum panels ensure transparency and insulation in the roofing system. Recycled plastics enhance the structure's sustainability and aesthetic appeal, with wooden flooring contributing comfort to the interior spaces. The incorporation of solar panels promotes energy self-sufficiency, and integrated water tanks facilitate rainwater collection, underscoring the project's commitment to resource conservation.

## Design Strategy

The design features a circular form inspired by local traditions, integrating ergonomic layouts and modular units for flexibility. Communal spaces are crafted to encourage social interaction among users, with dedicated areas for sleeping, dining, and sanitation. Natural ventilation is a critical element, achieved through polygonal roofing that optimizes airflow. The visual design incorporates geometric forms and colorful roofing patterns, reflecting cultural heritage while ensuring modern functional efficiencies. This approach to design not only meets immediate needs but also aligns with a broader commitment to ecological and cultural sustainability.

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