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Geothermal Shelter Made with Double-Glazed Glass and Adaptable Synthetic Fabrics

Author:
Jose Luis Olivares
Geothermal Shelter Made with Double-Glazed Glass and Adaptable Synthetic Fabrics
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Constructed with double-glazed glass for optimal insulation and adaptable synthetic fabrics for versatility, the design enhances energy efficiency while providing essential shelter for climbers in the Himalayan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes double-glazed glass for superior insulation and visibility in harsh climates.
02
Incorporates geothermal energy systems to enhance sustainability and reduce reliance on external power sources.
03
Features an adaptive backpack that transforms into a tent or sleeping bag, enhancing functionality for users.
04
Designed with modular components allowing flexible configurations based on elevation and site conditions.
05
Emphasizes community integration by training locals in modern technologies and traditional craftsmanship.

### Overview

The "Floating Flash Light" project addresses the needs of climbers and local communities in the Himalayan region, specifically through the design of mountain shelters and adaptable equipment. This initiative aims to create sustainable structures that promote safety and comfort for users while fostering socioeconomic development in ecologically sensitive environments across Nepal, India, Bhutan, and China.

### Spatial Strategy and Design

The modular mountain huts feature a pyramid-like form to enhance airflow and moisture management, which is critical in high-altitude conditions. These structures are constructed using double-glazed heat-treated glass to improve insulation and maintain visibility of the surrounding landscape. In addition, rainwater capture mechanisms are integrated into the design to support water accessibility in remote locations. The adaptive backpack, known as "Sherpa's Backpack," serves multiple functions, transforming into a tent or sleeping bag as needed. Constructed from durable fabrics, this design prioritizes longevity and user comfort while allowing for variable carrying capacity, reflecting the blend of traditional techniques with contemporary functionality.

### Sustainability and Community Engagement

The project incorporates geothermal and hydroelectric systems to provide renewable energy sources within the mountain huts, addressing the limited access to traditional energy in this region. Emphasis is placed on cultural community integration, with initiatives aimed at teaching local youth modern technologies alongside traditional crafts. This dual focus not only enhances the region's economic resilience but also preserves its cultural identity. The project's commitment to environmental responsibility is evident through careful material selection and energy-efficient designs, which work to minimize ecological impact in a fragile ecosystem.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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