Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

SIPs and Cyclopean Concrete Form a Sustainable Mountain Retreat in Nepal

Author:
Andrew Karpov
SIPs and Cyclopean Concrete Form a Sustainable Mountain Retreat in Nepal

Project in-detail

Constructed with structural insulated panels and cyclopean concrete, this mountain retreat in Nepal integrates local motifs and sustainable practices to provide a functional lodging space for visitors in a challenging environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with structural insulated panels for enhanced thermal efficiency.
02
Utilizes cyclopean concrete for durability against harsh mountain conditions.
03
Features flexible sleeping arrangements with modular two-tier configurations.
04
Incorporates local architectural motifs to reflect the cultural context.
05
Includes renewable energy solutions through integrated solar panels.

## Overview

Located in the Himalayan region of Nepal, the Himalayan Mountain Hut project is designed to provide sustainable accommodation in a remote, high-altitude environment. The intent is to integrate local architectural styles with modern sustainability practices, creating a functional space that acknowledges and enhances the cultural heritage of the area while serving the needs of tourists seeking both short and extended stays.

## Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The architectural design features a two-floor layout, optimizing usability while ensuring comfort for guests. The first floor includes a porch, a central dining area, a fully equipped kitchen, and essential utility spaces, totaling approximately 172.6 square meters. The second floor accommodates flexible sleeping arrangements that can adapt to varying group sizes, allowing for up to 20 occupants. The modular design includes features such as two-tier beds, facilitating dynamic adjustments for guest capacity.

## Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection emphasizes durability and environmental integration while adhering to sustainable construction practices. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are utilized for their superior insulation and efficient assembly, while cyclopean concrete reinforces the structure with contemporary benefits drawn from traditional building techniques. Wooden siding provides regional character and aesthetic harmony, and fiber-reinforced cement panels ensure weather resistance against the harsh Himalayan conditions. The project prioritizes the use of local materials, contributing to its self-sustainability objectives. Solar panels will also be integrated to supply renewable energy, enhancing the hut's environmental credentials.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy