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Flexible Fabric Facade With Woven Solar Components Enhancing Community Interaction In Himalayan Trail Shelter

Authors:
Jason Orbe-Smith, Jason Orbe-Smith
Flexible Fabric Facade With Woven Solar Components Enhancing Community Interaction In Himalayan Trail Shelter

Project in-detail

Incorporating a flexible fabric facade and integrated solar elements, this Himalayan trail hut redefines sustainable shelter while fostering community interaction among mountaineers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible fabric panels adapt to weather changes while providing energy efficiency.
02
Community spaces encourage social interaction among hikers and mountaineers.
03
Woven solar fabric integrates aesthetics with renewable energy collection.
04
Reclaimed materials enhance sustainability while reflecting local heritage.
05
The bent A-frame design optimizes structural integrity in mountainous conditions.

### Project Overview

The Pahada trail hut is situated in the Himalayan region of Nepal and is designed to cater to the needs of hikers while reflecting the cultural heritage of the area. This architectural response to its mountainous and diverse environment aims to offer functional shelter, integrating traditional design elements with contemporary sustainable practices.

### Design Framework and Spatial Strategy

The form of Pahada draws inspiration from the natural landscape, manifesting in undulating profiles that resonate with the surrounding topography. This design approach not only enhances the visual connection to the environment but also symbolizes the spiritual relationship between the local populace and the land. The layout prioritizes community engagement, featuring shared spaces that encourage interaction among users, fostering a sense of camaraderie among mountaineers.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Pahada utilizes a selection of materials that prioritize durability and environmental stewardship. Key features include woven solar fabric for energy generation, structural metal tubing that facilitates modular assembly, and reclaimed wood for aesthetic continuity and sustainability. Additionally, insulating cushions are incorporated for thermal comfort, and LED lighting is integrated within the fabric to enhance usability during nighttime. The implementation of solar panels and rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies a commitment to low-impact living, ensuring the hut meets the demands of its occupants while minimizing ecological disruption.

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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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