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Geometric Refuge With Elevated Air Chambers and Reinforced Concrete Shelter in the Himalayas

Authors:
Pilar Giraldo Rivera, Efraín Cardenas Osorio, Jose Miguel Hurtado Henao, Diana Alejandra Tabarquino Mora
Geometric Refuge With Elevated Air Chambers and Reinforced Concrete Shelter in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

Elevated air chambers and a geometric roof design create a resilient structure that harmonizes with the Himalayan landscape, serving as a vital refuge for mountaineers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated air chambers prevent cold air infiltration, enhancing thermal comfort.
02
Geometric roof design optimizes ventilation and wind resistance.
03
Reinforced concrete construction ensures stability under heavy snow loads.
04
Natural materials, including wood and stone, seamlessly blend with the landscape.
05
Adaptable blueprint allows for replication in various mountainous terrains.
The EK Hut is an architectural design project situated at the base of Paldor Peak in the Himalayan range of Nepal. This structure serves as a refuge for mountaineers, offering shelter and essential amenities in a challenging environment. The design combines practical functionality with aesthetic considerations, ensuring a harmonious integration with its natural surroundings.

The primary function of the EK Hut is to accommodate climbers and trekkers, providing them with shelter, communal spaces, and essential services. The building is organized into two levels, maximizing the use of space while ensuring comfort and usability. The first floor includes a social area with a fireplace, along with functional zones such as a kitchen and a dining area. This layout encourages social interaction among users, enhancing their climbing experience. The second floor contains individual sleeping rooms, designed to provide privacy and comfort while optimizing natural light through strategically placed openings.

The design features several unique approaches that differentiate it from typical mountain shelters. Firstly, the use of elevated air chambers, approximately 90 cm above the ground, promotes insulation by preventing cold air circulation under the structure. This innovative feature ensures a warmer environment during winter months. Secondly, the roof design is geometric, tailored to optimize wind airflow. This adaptation not only provides ventilation in warm weather but also reduces wind impact during storms, enhancing safety for occupants.

Another distinctive aspect of the EK Hut is its adaptability. The design allows for replication in diverse mountainous terrains, promoting efficiency in construction and ease of use across various environments. The material selection reflects this intent, utilizing reinforced concrete for structural stability, wood for warmth and aesthetic appeal, stone for a durable foundation, and steel for reinforcement. These materials together create a cohesive and resilient structure.

The integration of environmental considerations is also significant in the architectural design of the EK Hut. The project emphasizes passive solar gain and natural lighting, creating a sustainable habitat that minimizes thermal loss and relies on renewable resources. This focus on sustainability aligns with the natural conditions of the Himalayan environment, fostering a connection between users and the surrounding landscape.

Through its thoughtful design, the EK Hut exemplifies modern architecture tailored for extreme environments. It achieves a balance between functionality, sustainability, and user experience. For those interested in delving deeper into this project, including details about architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas, a comprehensive project presentation is available for exploration.
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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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