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Floating Roofs and Sustainable Stone Veneer in a Communal Mountain Habitat

Authors:
Tsz Kit Justin Ng, Ihroom Oh, Tristan Cheong Ping Sito
Floating Roofs and Sustainable Stone Veneer in a Communal Mountain Habitat

Project in-detail

Engineered with floating roofs and clad in robust stone veneer, the design seamlessly integrates traditional mountain aesthetics with modern sustainability to create a communal shelter for climbers in the Himalayas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes floating roof design to enhance natural ventilation and snow shedding.
02
Constructed with locally sourced stone veneer to integrate with the mountainous landscape.
03
Features communal spaces designed to foster interaction among climbers.
04
Incorporates advanced water harvesting techniques for sustainable resource management.
05
Employs thermal insulation systems tailored for extreme Himalayan climates.
The "Global Village" project is an architectural initiative designed to serve as a communal shelter for mountaineers in the Himalayan region. It reflects a synthesis of traditional Himalayan architectural principles and contemporary design practices, emphasizing communal living and environmental sustainability. This unique architectural design operates as a temporary community space, facilitating interaction among climbers from various backgrounds while respecting the cultural and environmental context of its surroundings.

The structure incorporates a series of individual units arranged around a central communal space, dubbed the Village Square, which serves as the social heart of the project. This area encourages social interaction and collaboration, reinforcing a sense of community. The design leverages local materials and techniques, ensuring that the project can withstand the harsh climate of the region while remaining visually harmonious with the mountainous environment.

Architectural Elements

The "Global Village" features several components that enhance its functionality and aesthetic value. One of the key aspects of its design is the use of stone veneer for exterior cladding, which not only provides structural stability but also honors the traditional building practices of the area. Timber beams are employed for interior support, introducing warmth to the environment, while metal plate cladding offers durability needed to withstand extreme weather conditions.

The roofs of the structure are engineered to appear as though they are floating above the walls, contributing to a sense of lightness. This design choice encourages natural air circulation and snow shedding, minimizing maintenance needs during winter months. The building’s layout includes circulatory alleys that enable efficient movement throughout the site, reflecting the pathways commonly found in traditional mountain settlements.

Sustainability and Innovative Features

A distinguishing characteristic of the "Global Village" project is its commitment to sustainability. It integrates renewable energy systems, such as solar panels that harness sunlight to provide a reliable energy source. The project also employs innovative water harvesting techniques, collecting moisture from the air through specialized electrostatic filters, thus ensuring access to fresh water in an environment where resources are limited.

The use of layered insulation systems enhances thermal efficiency, allowing the structure to maintain a comfortable internal environment despite external temperature fluctuations. This focus on energy efficiency and resource conservation sets the project apart from other temporary shelters, aligning it with modern architectural trends that prioritize ecological responsibility and minimal environmental impact.

The "Global Village" project exemplifies a thoughtful approach to architecture in challenging contexts. By blending traditional aesthetics with modern systems, it offers a functional and engaging space for climbers, promoting a sense of community and environmental stewardship. For further exploration of this project’s architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, please review the comprehensive project presentation to gain deeper insights into its design philosophy and technical innovations.
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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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