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Dark Stone and ETFE Skin Merging Community Spaces in a High-Altitude Retreat

Authors:
Xuan Tung Dang, Duc Tuyen Le, Kim Ngan Dang, Nhat Huy Dang
Dark Stone and ETFE Skin Merging Community Spaces in a High-Altitude Retreat

Project in-detail

The use of dark stone and lightweight ETFE skin creates a unique contrast in a high-altitude retreat designed for communal living and reflection, offering visitors an immersive experience in a stunning natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built using local dark stone to enhance thermal comfort in high-altitude conditions.
02
Incorporates an ETFE skin that provides natural light while ensuring efficient insulation.
03
Designed with distinct Sky Huts positioned for optimal views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Features advanced water harvesting systems tailored for melting snow and ice collection.
05
Community spaces are strategically placed to encourage social interaction among visitors.
Milkyeyes is an architectural project designed for a mountainous environment in the Himalayas, focusing on providing a space for rest and reflection amidst the natural landscape. The project comprises two distinct types of structures: Sky Huts and Earth Huts, carefully sited to enhance the user experience while respecting the challenging topographical features of the region.

The core function of Milkyeyes is to serve as a gathering space for visitors, fostering both community interaction and individual contemplation. The design prioritizes a seamless integration with the natural surroundings, allowing occupants to engage with the environment while providing essential amenities.

Design Elements and Materials

The project's architectural design incorporates local materials to ensure harmony with the landscape. Key components include:

- Dark Stone: Utilized for structural walls, providing durability and thermal mass.
- Wood Finishing: Introduced in various elements to create a warm interior atmosphere.
- Wood Beams: Used for structural support and aesthetics, showcasing skilled craftsmanship.
- ETFE Skin: This lightweight material allows natural light to permeate the interiors while maintaining insulation effectively, essential for the climate in high altitudes.

Another unique design approach is the integration of advanced water collection systems. In this high-altitude location, these systems efficiently capture melting snow and ice, facilitating sustainable water management. The project's commitment to energy self-sufficiency is evidenced by the use of solar panels to meet the power requirements of the huts.

Experiential Considerations

Milkyeyes emphasizes the experiential aspects of architecture, encouraging users to immerse themselves in the surrounding natural beauty. The layout of the huts maximizes views of the sky, fostering a connection between occupants and the environment. Community spaces within the project are thoughtfully designed to promote social interaction among visitors, balancing the need for personal space with communal engagement.

The careful consideration of spatial organization, combined with a focus on ecological responsibility and user experience, sets Milkyeyes apart from conventional architectural interventions in similar contexts. The project reflects a contemporary approach to architecture that harmonizes functionality with the natural world.

For further exploration of the Milkyeyes project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and detailed architectural designs, visit the project presentation to gain deeper insights into this innovative design.
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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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