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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.

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is an architectural project designed to provide shelter and amenities for climbers and trekkers navigating the challenging environment of the Himalayan region, particularly near Paldor Peak in Nepal. The project combines modular design with sustainable practices to create a functional and environmentally responsible structure suited for high-altitude living.

The architecture focuses on offering efficient living spaces that cater to both individual and communal needs. Utilizing hexagonal modular units, the design emphasizes flexibility and adaptability, allowing for various configurations based on user demand. The integration of modern amenities, including communal kitchens, bathrooms, and living areas, addresses the essential requirements of visitors in remote locations.

Sustainable Design Principles

The Mountain Hive employs a commitment to sustainability through the selection of materials and energy-efficient systems. The use of aluminum for the exterior façade ensures durability and lightweight construction, essential in high-altitude settings. Cork insulation enhances thermal performance, keeping the interiors warm during cold weather without relying solely on external heating sources.

The structural framework primarily utilizes sustainably sourced wood, which brings comfort while minimizing the project’s carbon footprint. The incorporation of a photovoltaic roof serves as a renewable energy source, providing electricity and reducing reliance on non-renewable resources. This approach not only aligns with contemporary sustainability goals but also demonstrates an understanding of the local environment and climate.

Unique Modularity and Community Focus

One of the distinctive features of the Mountain Hive is its modularity. The hexagonal design allows for efficient space management, with each unit serving specific functions—sleeping, cooking, and communal areas—while remaining interconnected. This not only maximizes usable area but fosters a sense of community among users.

The flexibility of the modular design enables the structure to expand or contract based on visitor numbers, ensuring efficient resource use without compromising comfort. The architectural language promotes collaborative living, encouraging social interaction crucial for enhancing the overall experience in isolated settings.

Functional Layout and User-Centric Design

The layout of the Mountain Hive prioritizes both privacy and connectivity. Bedrooms are organized to allow personal space, while communal areas are designed for gatherings and shared meals. The integration of services like kitchens and restrooms directly within modular units simplifies the user experience and operational efficiency.

Attention to internal organization and navigation leads to an intuitive flow throughout the building, providing easy access for all users. This approach reduces the chances of congestion in communal spaces, making it a practical solution for varying group sizes.

For a comprehensive understanding of the architectural intent and design nuances, it is recommended to explore the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs associated with the Mountain Hive. Doing so will provide further insights into how the project uniquely addresses the demands of high-altitude habitation while promoting sustainable practices in architecture.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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