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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

Project in-detail

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.

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is a thoughtfully designed architectural project situated in the northern region of Nepal, nestled within the majestic Himalayan range. This structure serves primarily as a shelter for trekkers and climbers navigating the challenging terrain. Its design embraces the essence of the mountainous environment, facilitating a harmonious interaction between human occupants and their natural surroundings.

The hut's architectural layout incorporates both communal and private spaces, promoting social interaction while providing necessary privacy. A central courtyard anchors the design, allowing for outdoor activities and fostering a sense of community among visitors. The distribution of spaces is intentional, facilitating efficient movement throughout the building while maximizing the stunning views that the location offers.

Sustainable materiality is one of the distinguishing features of this architectural project. The use of high-altitude mud brick, locally sourced stone, and sustainably harvested timber reflects a deep respect for local building traditions and environmental considerations. The materials were selected not only for their aesthetic qualities but also for their thermal performance, ensuring a comfortable interior climate in the face of extreme weather conditions often encountered in the region.

Unique Design Approaches

Unlike many traditional mountain huts, this project adopts a non-linear form that emphasizes flow and connectivity. The architecture breaks away from common rectilinear designs, allowing for organic spatial relationships that echo the surrounding topography. By integrating large windows, the design incorporates significant natural light while framing picturesque views, thus enhancing the occupant's experience of their environment.

The design also features multi-functional areas that accommodate the diverse needs of climbers and trekkers. Sleeping quarters can be adapted for individuals or groups, which supports a variety of use cases. Additionally, shared facilities, including bathrooms and equipment storage areas, promote efficient use of space while fostering community interaction among visitors. Outdoor gardens and shared hearths invite occupants to engage with nature actively, providing essential amenities that tie back to the natural landscape.

Sustainability is a core principle guiding this architectural project. By adopting passive solar strategies and ensuring proper natural ventilation, the structure minimizes energy consumption. The orientation and strategic openings throughout the building enhance airflow, making the indoor environment more pleasant despite the challenging external conditions.

For further insights into this architectural project, including architectural plans, architectural sections, architectural designs, and various architectural ideas, explore the full project presentation. This will provide valuable information on the design execution and underlying concepts that define the Himalayan Mountain Hut.

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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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