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Hexagonal Pods with Etfe Roofing Crafted for High-Altitude Resilience

Authors:
Justin Runyowa, Lindsay Solomons, Jarryd Knight, Sean May
Hexagonal Pods with Etfe Roofing Crafted for High-Altitude Resilience
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Crafted from lightweight ETFE and featuring modular hexagonal pods, this mountain hut is designed for high-altitude resilience, providing essential shelter for hikers and mountaineers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from lightweight ETFE, the roofing allows for natural light while providing thermal insulation.
02
Hexagonal pod structure optimizes space and enhances structural integrity in rugged environments.
03
Flexible solar panels on the roof ensure a self-sufficient energy source for the hut.
04
High tensile stainless steel anchors adapt the structure to varying terrain conditions.
05
Local craftsmanship is incorporated in the modular design, promoting regional building techniques.

### Project Overview

Located in the Himalayan region, the structure is designed as a mountain hut to accommodate hikers and mountaineers. The concept emphasizes a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape while addressing the physical and psychological needs of its users. Through the application of advanced materials and modular design principles, the facility promotes sustainability and fosters a sense of community engagement.

### Materiality and Structural Strategy

The design employs a range of carefully selected materials to enhance both functionality and aesthetic value. ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) serves as the primary material for the domed roof, allowing natural light to enter while providing essential thermal insulation. The transparent nature of ETFE facilitates occupants' connection to their environment. Aluminum is utilized for the structural framework, enabling ease of transport and installation in the remote mountain setting. Sandwich insulated panels provide durability and thermal efficiency, ensuring comfortable indoor conditions while reducing energy consumption.

Additionally, flexible solar panels integrated into the dome harvest renewable energy, significantly minimizing the hut's carbon footprint. High tensile stainless steel anchors are incorporated to stabilize the structure against the extreme weather conditions typical of the region, with the flexibility to adapt to varying terrain.

### Adaptable User Experience

The architectural design results in modular units that can be reconfigured based on user requirements. Each pod is designed to function either independently or in groups to create larger communal spaces. The adaptability of the design accommodates various uses, including sleeping areas and gathering spaces, allowing for responsive adjustments to the needs of occupants. Sustainability is central to the design, as the facility aims for self-sufficiency through renewable energy sources and efficient waste management practices.

The hexagonal form of the pods not only echoes the structural inspiration of a beehive but also maximizes space efficiency, optimizing both functionality and integration into the natural landscape. The choice of local materials and traditional construction techniques further supports a sustainable approach while reinforcing cultural context in the design process.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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