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Faceted Aluminum Shelter Utilizing Modular Design in High-Altitude Environments

Authors:
Sergius Godulla, Johan Bettum, Damjan Jovanovic
Faceted Aluminum Shelter Utilizing Modular Design in High-Altitude Environments

Project in-detail

Utilizing faceted aluminum panels and modular construction, this high-altitude shelter integrates seamlessly with its environment while providing essential accommodations for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes faceted aluminum panels for enhanced structural performance in high-altitude conditions.
02
Employs a modular construction system that allows for adaptable spatial configurations.
03
Features a central communal area designed to foster social interaction among users.
04
Incorporates solar panels for self-sufficiency in energy needs.
05
Integrates advanced water treatment systems for sustainable water use.

### Project Overview

**Four Square** is a high-altitude mountain hut situated within the Himalayan mountain range, designed to meet the needs of individuals in extreme environments. Its architectural approach emphasizes adaptability to the unique challenges of high-altitude living while prioritizing ecological sustainability through carefully selected materials and energy-efficient systems.

### Spatial Organization

The interior layout features a modular design arranged around a central communal space known as "the hearth," which facilitates social interaction among users. Surrounding this area are designated zones for sleeping quarters, storage, and essential services, ensuring all necessary amenities are readily accessible. Strategic placement of openings for natural light enhances the atmosphere within the hut, creating a welcoming environment. Key components include bedrooms for individual or shared accommodations, service areas with cold storage and sanitary facilities, and technical rooms for equipment maintenance.

### Material Selection

The structure utilizes lightweight, insulated aluminum panels that streamline transport and construction while providing durability against harsh weather conditions. The choice of materials, including wooden cladding for interior finishes, glass for faceted elements, and integrated solar panels, reflects a commitment to sustainability and energy efficiency. These materials also contribute to the hut's structural integrity, ensuring it can withstand the environmental challenges typical of high-altitude settings. Solar energy systems further enhance the project's self-sufficiency, while an innovative water treatment method utilizes meltwater for potable use.

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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
competition now

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