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Mud Brick Structure with Natural Stone and Timber Integration for Mountain Shelter

Authors:
Ian Nazareth, Karan Shrestha, Natasha Maben
Mud Brick Structure with Natural Stone and Timber Integration for Mountain Shelter
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Constructed with locally sourced mud brick and stone, this mountain shelter skillfully integrates timber framing to provide a sustainable refuge for trekkers in the challenging Himalayan terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using high-altitude mud brick to optimize thermal performance.
02
Incorporates locally sourced stone to enhance structural integrity and aesthetics.
03
Features a central courtyard design to promote community interaction among users.
04
Utilizes passive solar strategies for natural heating and ventilation throughout the year.
05
Adaptable sleeping quarters designed for flexibility in accommodation styles.

### Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is situated in the northern region of Nepal, within the challenging yet striking landscape of the Himalayan range. This architectural design aims to provide essential shelter and services for trekkers and climbers while addressing the unique environmental conditions of the region. The project emphasizes the relationship between the built environment and its geographic context, integrating adaptive elements that support human activity in this rugged terrain.

### Spatial Configuration and Interaction

The layout of the hut diverges from conventional designs by incorporating a central courtyard that promotes social interaction among visitors while maintaining views of the surrounding mountains. The entrance is intentionally designed to create an inviting atmosphere, countering the sense of confinement often associated with high-altitude structures. Ground-level access facilitates movement through shared indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing for meaningful engagement with the natural landscape. The upper levels include semi-private zones that serve both communal and individual functions, featuring large windows that provide natural light and panoramic vistas characteristic of the Himalayan experience.

### Material and Sustainability

The choice of materials plays a crucial role in the sustainability and aesthetics of the hut. High-altitude mud bricks reflect local building traditions while offering insulation and resilience against severe weather conditions. Locally sourced stone further enhances the building's connection to the mountainous setting, providing durability and a sense of permanence. Sustainably harvested timber is utilized for structural components and finishes, blending modern design with traditional craftsmanship. Additionally, masonry elements are integrated to improve thermal performance, ensuring a comfortable interior climate for occupants. The design also employs passive solar principles and strategic openings to optimize natural ventilation, addressing the challenges posed by the Himalayan climate.

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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.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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