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Engineered Bamboo Shelters Utilizing Stone Gabions for Sustainable Mountain Accommodations

Author:
James Peirce
Engineered Bamboo Shelters Utilizing Stone Gabions for Sustainable Mountain Accommodations

Project in-detail

Engineered bamboo constructs combine with stone gabions to create a resilient shelter that harmonizes with the Himalayan landscape, providing essential accommodations for trekkers and climbers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced engineered bamboo for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features stone gabions for structural support and environmental integration.
03
Modular design allows for flexible accommodation configurations.
04
Incorporates water collection systems for self-sufficiency in remote settings.
05
Natural ventilation approaches maintain internal climate without mechanical systems.

### Project Overview

The **Transcend Mountain Hut** is located in the Himalayan Mountains of Nepal. The design emphasizes the integration of human habitation with the surrounding natural environment, providing shelter for trekkers and climbers while facilitating an engagement with the extreme conditions endemic to the region. Influenced by the philosophical concept of varying states of consciousness that result from interaction with nature, the project aims to create a unique experience for its users.

### Spatial Organization and Flexibility

The hut's modular design features a strategic arrangement of three distinct zones: private living modules, service areas, and public spaces. This zoning approach allows for a flexible spatial configuration, accommodating both communal living and individual privacy as required. Each private module is designed for small groups, while the service areas promote social interaction through shared amenities. Public spaces are oriented to provide views of the stunning landscape, enhancing visitors' connection to the environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The structure utilizes locally sourced, sustainable materials such as engineered bamboo, stone gabions, and polycarbonate panels. These materials are selected for their durability and ability to withstand harsh weather conditions while supporting a reduced environmental footprint. The modular components are prefabricated to facilitate remote assembly, minimizing the impact on the fragile ecosystem during construction. The incorporation of natural ventilation, rainwater collection systems, and solar orientation further contributes to the hut's sustainability, emphasizing its commitment to coexistence with the surrounding environment.

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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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