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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

Project in-detail

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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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

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