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Reflective Glass and Natural Stone Rest Stop Blending Seamlessly with the Himalayan Landscape

Authors:
Hyunwoo Kim, Yumin Lee, Byunghoo Kim
Reflective Glass and Natural Stone Rest Stop Blending Seamlessly with the Himalayan Landscape

Project in-detail

Mimicking the natural boulders of the Himalayas, this structure utilizes mirrored glass and native stone to create a seamless rest facility that enhances the climber experience on one of the world's most challenging mountains.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure's boulder-like form is designed to blend seamlessly with the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
02
Mirrored glass panels reflect the natural environment, minimizing visual impact while enhancing interior light.
03
Electrochromic glass allows for adjustable transparency, providing privacy and regulating light conditions.
04
Native stone is used throughout the facility, reinforcing its connection to the local environment and ensuring durability.
05
Community spaces within the facility are designed to promote interaction among climbers, fostering a sense of camaraderie in a remote location.
Boulder Point is an architectural endeavor situated in the challenging environment of Mount Everest, designed primarily to serve the basic yet crucial needs of climbers and trekkers. The project aims to provide an essential toilet facility while promoting a sense of community among users, thus embodying a commitment to not just functionality, but also to the enhancement of visitor experiences in an extraordinary landscape. The design speaks to the rugged character of the mountain, offering a solution that is meant to coexist harmoniously with its surroundings.

The structure itself is conceived with a boulder-like form that integrates seamlessly into the rocky terrain. This intentional design approach minimizes visual disruption and respects the natural scenery. By using materials that reflect those found in the local environment, Boulder Point establishes a dialogue with its setting. The chosen materials—mirrored glass, electrochromic glass, wood, stone, and steel—are not only functional but also serve to create a cohesive aesthetic that aligns with the principles of sustainable architecture.

Mirrored glass is incorporated to serve dual purposes: it allows light to fill the internal spaces and reflects the beauty of the surrounding landscape, effectively blending the building with its environment. The use of electrochromic glass offers a modern touch, providing the ability to adjust transparency based on user needs, enhancing privacy while also managing light conditions within. Wood has been thoughtfully selected for benches and other interior elements, providing a tactile warmth that contrasts with the harshness of the external climate. The inclusion of native stone for structural and seating elements further strengthens the building's connection to its location while also offering durability. Finally, a steel framework provides the structural integrity necessary to withstand the extreme weather conditions of the region.

Inside, Boulder Point prioritizes user experience and comfort. The layout of the interior is intentionally designed to facilitate interaction among climbers, fostering a sense of camaraderie within this transient space. The arrangement of elements invites users to pause, reflect, and engage with each other, aligning with the social aspects of climbing culture. This is further enhanced by the strategic placement of mirrors, which serve not only aesthetic functions but also contribute to a feeling of spaciousness and light within the compact structure.

Unique design concepts are evident throughout Boulder Point, particularly in its approach to waste management and sustainability. Recognizing the environmental sensitivity of the location, the project incorporates systems that guide waste disposal while minimizing impact on the local ecosystem. This reflects a broader commitment to responsible architecture—an acknowledgment that built forms can support human needs without compromising ecological integrity.

Boulder Point stands as a notable example of how architecture can address essential functions in extreme environments while fostering community and harmony with nature. The project effectively balances practicality with sensitivity to its environment, offering insights into the potential for thoughtful design in challenging conditions. To explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs of Boulder Point in greater detail would provide a deeper understanding of the innovative ideas that shaped this project and reveal how design can adapt to and enhance the experience of its users in remarkable locations.
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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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