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Hexagonal Modules Built With Aluminum and Cork for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Authors:
Martino Milanese, Cristiano Laguzzi, Marta Milano
Hexagonal Modules Built With Aluminum and Cork for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with hexagonal aluminum modules and cork insulation, this mountain shelter offers a sustainable solution for climbers and trekkers in the challenging Himalayan environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using modular hexagonal units to optimize space and functionality.
02
Incorporates cork insulation for enhanced thermal efficiency in extreme weather conditions.
03
Features a fully integrated photovoltaic roof for renewable energy generation.
04
Utilizes lightweight aluminum for structural durability and resistance to corrosion.
05
Designed to foster community interaction with shared living and dining spaces.

### Overview
Located near Paldor Peak in Nepal, the Himalayan Mountain Hut, known as "Mountain Hive," is a sustainable architectural solution tailored for the rigors of high-altitude environments. Designed to accommodate climbers and trekkers, the project emphasizes minimizing environmental impact while providing essential services and shelter.

### Spatial Strategy
The structure features a modular system composed of hexagonal units, offering flexibility to cater to varying occupant needs. Each module serves distinct functions, such as bedrooms, kitchens, and service areas, fostering a communal living environment through interconnected spaces. This layout is crafted to balance privacy and social interaction, encouraging a sense of community among users.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Carefully selected materials contribute to the hut's functional efficiency and sustainability. The lightweight aluminum façade and renewable wood structure are engineered for durability in harsh weather conditions, while cork insulation enhances thermal performance. Additionally, the integration of a photovoltaic roof underscores a commitment to renewable energy, ensuring that the facility operates with minimal emissions. The overall design focuses on recyclability, aiming to significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with mountain construction projects.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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
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