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Rainwater Collection Facility With Filtering Fabric in a Raised Timber Structure

Author:
Gianmarco Biasin
Rainwater Collection Facility With Filtering Fabric in a Raised Timber Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with a raised timber framework and equipped with a rainwater collection system and filtering fabric, the facility provides climbers with essential hygiene solutions in the extreme environment of Mount Everest.
5 key facts about this project
01
Raised structure to reduce wildlife intrusion and enhance user privacy.
02
Equipped with a rack-lever mechanism for vertical adjustment based on snow levels.
03
Built with a rainwater collection system for resource efficiency in an extreme environment.
04
Inspired by traditional Asian temples, blending cultural significance with functionality.
05
Utilizes filtering fabric to purify collected water, integrating sustainability into design.

The WC design proposal addresses the need for a minimum bathroom facility at the base camps along the ascent routes of Mount Everest. Set in one of the world’s toughest environments, this facility aims to provide climbers with a clean and functional space. The overall design emphasizes user safety, privacy, and adaptability, making it fit for the challenges posed by high-altitude expeditions.

Raised Structure

The structure is built on a raised wooden framework, which serves to reduce risks associated with wildlife while ensuring user privacy. This elevation is crucial in extreme climates, where comfort and usability can be affected by external conditions. By providing a secure space, the design promotes hygiene standards that are especially important in remote camping situations.

Innovative Mechanism

A key aspect of the design is the rack-lever mechanism found within the support poles. This mechanism allows the toilet to be adjusted vertically according to changes in snow levels throughout the year. Such flexibility ensures that climbers can rely on the facility, even as environmental conditions shift with the seasons, maintaining usability no matter the weather.

Cultural Integration

Influences from traditional Asian temples are visible in the simplified form of the upper structure. This design connection to a cultural reference adds an appealing visual aspect. Filter flaps made from special filtering fabrics hide a tank that collects rainwater and melted snow, linking the facility to its natural surroundings and encouraging the use of local resources.

Sustainability Focus

Emphasizing sustainability, the design includes a system for rainwater collection, helping to lessen environmental impact. By using resources such as melted snow and rainwater, the facility promotes efficient water usage in a location where these resources may not always be readily available. Wood is used for the construction, providing durability while adhering to environmentally conscious principles.

The simplicity of assembly and disassembly is achieved through a construction system of wooden beams and pillars, making transport and setup straightforward for climbers. This practical approach addresses immediate needs while reflecting a considerate attitude toward infrastructure in demanding environments. It enhances the climbers' overall experience by maintaining essential requirements for hygiene and safety.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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Competition organisers

The MICROHOME 10 competition invites participants to submit visionary designs for off-grid, modular microhomes that push the limits of sustainable, small-scale living. Organised by Buildner in partnership with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this tenth edition sets the challenge of designing a dwelling for two people within a maximum floor area of 25 m², encouraging bold solutions adaptable to any urban or rural location. The competition continues Buildner’s mission to foster innovative approaches to compact, energy-efficient housing that can address pressing global challenges.

This year’s edition offers a generous total prize fund of €100,000, including the Kingspan Award for designs that integrate high-performance Kingspan products and the Hapi Homes Award for a project selected for real-world construction. In addition to cash prizes, the winners gain international exposure through Buildner’s media partnerships, publications, and a dedicated MICROHOME magazine, further amplifying their ideas to the wider architectural community.

Key dates for MICROHOME 10 include the closing date for registration on 25 September 2025, the submission deadline on 29 October 2025 (11:59 p.m. London time), and the announcement of winners on 9 December 2025. These milestones ensure participants have clear timelines to develop and present their concepts, with early registration discounts available to support students and emerging designers worldwide.

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
Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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