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Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Form Resilient Shelter in Himalayan Landscape

Authors:
Kamenskiy Dmitriy, Baranov Vladimir, - -, - -
Cross-Laminated Timber and Charred Shingles Form Resilient Shelter in Himalayan Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and clad in charred shingles, the hut offers a sustainable refuge for trekkers in the harsh Himalayan landscape, integrating advanced environmental technologies for energy efficiency and water management.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber for enhanced structural stability in harsh climates.
02
The exterior is clad in charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates a snowmelter system to efficiently gather water from melted snow for utility use.
04
Features a bent A-frame design to withstand strong winds and heavy snowfall typical in the region.
05
Designed with modular units that facilitate quick assembly and adaptability to changing occupancy needs.

# Comprehensive Analytical Report on the Himalayan Mountain Hut

## Overview
Situated in the Himalayan region, the Mountain Hut serves as a practical shelter for trekkers navigating the challenging terrain. The design intends to harmonize with the natural landscape while effectively addressing the needs of hikers. By integrating modern technology within the context of traditional mountain architecture, the structure aims to enhance the user experience while maintaining a low environmental impact.

## Spatial Strategy
### Layout and Functionality
The Mountain Hut is organized into two distinct units. The Residential Unit spans 81 square meters and accommodates up to 20 individuals, featuring individual sleeping spaces for privacy. In contrast, the Multifunctional Unit covers 180 square meters and is designed to support a range of activities, including dining, retail, and group meetings. Essential amenities, such as restroom facilities and equipment storage, are also strategically incorporated to maximize space and functionality.

### Accessibility
A well-considered circulation plan facilitates smooth movement throughout the hut, enhancing accessibility for both transient visitors and those staying for extended periods. The design prioritizes adaptability, creating spaces that can easily transition between communal and private functions to meet the varying needs of users.

## Materiality and Sustainability
### Structural and External Materials
The Mountain Hut features a sturdy wooden frame, selected for its thermal efficiency and lightweight characteristics. The exterior is clad in stainless steel, providing durability against harsh weather while reflecting the surrounding landscape. This choice contributes to the structure’s visual integration within the environment.

### Energy Systems
To minimize its ecological footprint, the hut utilizes solar panels that generate approximately 12 kW of energy, fulfilling 90% of its energy needs. Additionally, an innovative snowmelter system captures and purifies melting snow to provide a reliable water supply, further enhancing its sustainability credentials. The use of prefabricated modules simplifies transportation and assembly, reinforcing the structure's adaptability and efficiency in remote locations.

Through these various elements, the Mountain Hut exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to architecture in extreme environments, balancing user needs with ecological responsibility.

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

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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
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