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Mandala-Inspired Shelter Featuring Natural Stone Facade and Sustainable Photovoltaics

Authors:
Anna Bolotnikova, Konstantin Balin, Regina Lugmanova
Mandala-Inspired Shelter Featuring Natural Stone Facade and Sustainable Photovoltaics
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Emphasizing a mandala-inspired layout and constructed with a natural stone facade, the shelter harmonizes with its mountainous surroundings while providing essential accommodation for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mandala-inspired layout enhances spatial organization and promotes introspection.
02
Natural stone facade allows seamless integration with the mountainous landscape.
03
Solar energy harnessed through integrated photovoltaic panels.
04
Water management systems ensure responsible use and treatment of resources.
05
Large windows frame unobstructed views of the surrounding peaks.

### Project Overview

The Mountain Hut is situated in an elevated region of Nepal, intended to accommodate trekkers and climbers navigating the expansive and rugged mountain ranges. This structure provides essential shelter while prioritizing an immersive experience in nature, guided by a design philosophy that emphasizes introspection and personal discovery. Drawing upon cultural motifs, the design facilitates a connection between users and their surroundings, enriching their journey through the landscape.

### Spatial Organization

The layout of the Mountain Hut is strategically crafted to maximize both functionality and user experience. It is divided into specific areas tailored for different purposes:

- **Living Quarters**: These spaces are designed for the comfort of trekkers, featuring cozy seating and storage solutions for climbing gear, allowing occupants to recover after their expeditions.

- **Staff Areas**: Designed as a base for operational staff, these areas ensure that efficient support services are readily available for guests.

- **Common Areas**: Focused on fostering community interaction, these spaces serve as venues for social engagement and shared culinary experiences, strengthening the communal atmosphere among climbers.

Thoughtful arrangement of windows and openings offers panoramic views of the surrounding peaks, reinforcing the connection to nature while promoting tranquility within the hut.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Materials used in the construction of the Mountain Hut have been carefully selected for their environmental and structural properties:

1. **Natural Stones**: Employed for the primary facade, these materials integrate the structure into the landscape while providing thermal stability in various weather conditions.

2. **Sandwich Panels**: These composites enhance insulation, maintaining warmth within the facility without compromising aesthetic appeal.

3. **Photovoltaic Panels**: Installed on the roof, these solar energy systems support the goal of self-sufficiency and align with sustainable practices.

4. **Wood**: Utilized extensively in interior spaces, wood adds warmth and comfort, balancing the rugged exterior with a homely ambiance.

5. **Reflective Materials**: Strategically placed, these elements enhance natural lighting, creating a bright and inviting environment.

6. **Water Management Systems**: Including reservoirs and treatment facilities for wastewater, these features reflect a commitment to ecological balance and responsible resource management.

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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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