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Mountain Retreat with ETFE Roofing and Locally Sourced Stone for Sustainable Living

Authors:
Xuan Tung Dang, Duc Tuyen Le, Kim Ngan Dang, Nhat Huy Dang
Mountain Retreat with ETFE Roofing and Locally Sourced Stone for Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Nestled in the Himalayan landscape, this mountain retreat features innovative ETFE roofing and a sustainable water harvesting system, harmoniously integrating locally sourced stone and wood to create a refined yet earthy connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The retreat incorporates a state-of-the-art water harvesting system that captures and purifies glacial meltwater, addressing freshwater scarcity in high-altitude environments.
02
The use of ETFE roofing not only reduces the overall weight of the structure but also enhances natural light penetration, creating a luminous indoor atmosphere.
03
The design features an innovative bent A-frame configuration that offers superior snow management while blending with the natural contours of the mountain landscape.
04
Locally sourced dark stone and wood finishes echo traditional regional building practices, ensuring that the structure resonates with the cultural heritage of the Himalayas.
05
Communal areas within the retreat are intentionally designed to foster social interaction, allowing visitors to share experiences and engage with the local environment.
The project presents an innovative architectural design situated in the challenging landscape of the Himalayas, blending the natural environment with thoughtful human habitation. This design encompasses a dual structure, termed the "Sky Hut" and the "Earth Hut," each serving specific functions while upholding the overarching principles of sustainability and community connectivity. The project represents a harmonious interaction between architecture and nature, fostering a serene retreat for outdoor enthusiasts, trekkers, and climbers.

The primary function of the project is to provide shelter and a gathering space, designed not only for individual accommodations but also to promote interaction among guests. Both huts facilitate unique experiences: the Sky Hut offers sweeping vistas of the celestial landscape, inviting contemplation and appreciation of the night sky, while the Earth Hut provides a solid connection to the natural terrain, accommodating a variety of activities centered around community engagement and shared stories. This thoughtful approach to design celebrates the ways in which architecture can enhance human experience while acknowledging the surrounding natural beauty.

Critical to the effectiveness of this project are its distinct architectural elements. The Sky Hut features a fluid roof design that aligns seamlessly with the contours of the landscape. This form not only accentuates the visual connection to the sky but also assists in managing snow accumulation, a practical necessity in such a snowy environment. In contrast, the Earth Hut adopts a more geometric configuration, integrating angular properties that reflect the rugged character of the Himalayan indigenous architecture. Both structures implement local stone and sustainably sourced wood, emphasizing a commitment to materiality that respects local traditions, while also optimizing energy efficiency.

The design embraces advanced technology and environmental stewardship, addressing the critical need for water management in high-altitude regions. A dedicated water collection system captures glacial meltwater and rain, which is essential for sustainability in such a remote location. This feature highlights a significant architectural idea: that modern architectural practices can complement natural water cycles rather than disrupt them. The use of light, transparent materials like ETFE for roofing allows natural sunlight to penetrate indoor spaces while maintaining insulation, showcasing an innovative approach to environmental design.

Moreover, the interior of both structures incorporates local wood finishes, enhancing the sense of warmth and comfort—elements that are often vital in designing a welcoming space. The architectural layout prioritizes communal areas, encouraging social interaction, exchange of experiences, and a deeper understanding of local culture and environment. This is particularly relevant in a region where connection to nature is intertwined with the local way of life.

The entire project represents a thoughtful blend of form, function, and material that aligns with the local ethos and climatic demands. The relationship between the architecture and the surrounding landscape not only respects traditional design elements but also enhances them through contemporary sustainable practices. By focusing on duality in experience and user engagement, the project stands as a significant exploration of how architecture can facilitate both individual reflection and community connection.

For those interested in understanding more about the details and processes behind this architectural design project, additional insight can be gained by reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and designs. Engaging with these elements can provide a deeper appreciation of the architectural ideas leading to this harmonious integration of shelter and landscape.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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