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Rammed Earth Units with Parabolic Roofs for Sustainable Trekkers' Shelter

Authors:
KLEARCHOS MALEAS, DOMENIKA KONSTANTINIDI, LEFTERIS VRETTAKOS, VASILIS FILIPPOU
Rammed Earth Units with Parabolic Roofs for Sustainable Trekkers' Shelter

Project in-detail

Rammed earth construction complemented by parabolic roofs provides a climate-responsive shelter for trekkers navigating the rugged landscapes of Nepal.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rammed earth walls provide excellent thermal mass, enhancing energy efficiency in fluctuating climates.
02
A unique parabolic roof design optimizes rainwater collection while offering structural stability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to minimize weight and support flexible modular configurations.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and provide fire resistance, using traditional Japanese techniques.
05
Communal spaces are intentionally designed to foster interaction among trekkers, enhancing the overall experience.

### Overview
Located in the mountainous regions of Nepal, the Modular Hut project addresses the accommodation needs of trekkers along significant pilgrimage trails in the Himalayas. This design marries contemporary architectural principles with traditional materials and local craftsmanship, focusing on sustainability, flexibility, and the creation of community-oriented spaces.

### Modular Design and Spatial Strategy
The project employs a modular design concept, utilizing 4.8m x 4.8m units that can be adapted into various configurations to suit site-specific requirements and user preferences. This flexibility allows for the integration of common areas, dormitories, and utility facilities, such as kitchens and bathrooms, tailored to diverse occupancy scenarios—ranging from minimal staffing to full service. Central communal areas foster interaction among visitors, while private dormitories are designed for comfort and rest, ensuring a functional response to user needs.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materials are carefully chosen to reflect local resources and enhance environmental sustainability. Rammed earth provides excellent thermal mass, while locally sourced wood is used for structural components, supporting the local economy and minimizing transportation-related carbon emissions. The use of durable aluminum for roofing and high-efficiency insulating glass for windows enhances longevity and energy performance. Renewable energy systems, including rainwater harvesting and solar panels, contribute to the huts' self-sufficiency, aligning with modern eco-architectural practices and addressing the ecological challenges of the region.

### Technological Integration
Incorporating advanced technologies, the design features a parabolic roof structure that optimizes rainwater management and energy efficiency while harmonizing with the local terrain. Additionally, thick earthen walls facilitate effective thermal control, making the huts responsive to the climatic conditions typical of the mountainous environment. The modular approach and the use of local materials effectively tackle challenges related to accessibility and material transport, showcasing the adaptability of the design to its geographical and logistical context.

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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

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