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Geometric Harmony in Thermal Stone and Wood Shelter Design

Authors:
Eva Sanllehí, Magda Barceló, Juan Durà
Geometric Harmony in Thermal Stone and Wood Shelter Design

Project in-detail

A circular structure of thermal stone and locally sourced wood harmonizes modern sustainability with traditional geometric forms, providing a communal living space designed for resilience in mountainous environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances thermal efficiency and reduces material use.
02
Integration of local stone provides natural insulation and structural stability.
03
Community spaces are strategically placed to encourage social interaction.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability while complementing the landscape.
05
Renewable energy systems ensure self-sufficiency in harsh mountain environments.

**Overview**

The Yantra Shelter is located in a mountainous region, designed to address the critical need for accommodation in extreme weather conditions. The project draws inspiration from traditional geometric forms, specifically the "Yantra," which symbolizes the union of heaven and earth. By combining cultural storytelling with environmental responsiveness, the design fosters a connection to the surrounding landscape while providing necessary shelter.

**Spatial Organization and User Interaction**

The shelter's layout is intentional, with a focus on functionality and communal living. It features two circular floors totaling 160 square meters, accommodating up to 20 people. The lower floor includes shared areas for dining and socializing, promoting interaction and community bonding. In contrast, the upper level consists of private sleeping areas, facilitating a balance between communal and individual experiences. This arrangement enhances social connections among occupants while ensuring adequate privacy.

**Sustainable Design and Material Selection**

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the shelter’s sustainability and performance. Local stone and wood are utilized to minimize environmental impact while enhancing thermal insulation. The stone foundation provides structural stability and durability against harsh weather, while the wooden framework supports the shelter’s unique oval form and contributes interior warmth. Additionally, the integration of renewable energy sources, such as solar panels and wind turbines, supports the building's energy needs and emphasizes a commitment to ecological stewardship. The design prioritizes self-sufficiency through efficient resource management, with water systems focused on enhancing the inhabitants’ experience amidst challenging climatic conditions.

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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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