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Skiing Cabin Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Enhanced Sustainability

Authors:
Beverley Salmon, Yanchee Lau, David Grove, Richard Nightingale
Skiing Cabin Featuring Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles for Enhanced Sustainability

Project in-detail

Nestled in the heart of the Himalayas, this innovative skiing cabin employs cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles, harmonizing traditional craftsmanship with sustainable practices to create a resilient retreat for adventurers seeking refuge in a remote landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The cabin incorporates yak wool insulation, leveraging local resources to optimize thermal efficiency in cold climates.
02
A rainwater harvesting system is integrated into the design, promoting self-sufficiency and environmental responsibility.
03
The structure utilizes recycled copper for its roofing and cladding, enhancing durability and allowing for a distinctive aesthetic.
04
Employing a modular configuration, the cabin can be adapted to accommodate varying group sizes and needs, maximizing usability in diverse scenarios.
05
The bent A-frame design not only contributes to the aesthetic appeal but also improves wind resistance, making it suitable for the harsh Himalayan environment.
The Himalayan Mountain Hut is an architectural project designed to provide shelter and support for trekkers and climbers in the challenging environments of the Himalayas, particularly in remote areas of Nepal. This project embodies a commitment to sustainability while addressing the unique needs of its users within an extreme climate. The hut functions as a multipurpose space accommodating both lodging and communal activities, serving as a base for expedition groups who venture into the rugged terrain.

Architecturally, the design emphasizes modularity and adaptability, allowing for different configurations to meet varying group sizes and requirements. The structure can host accommodations for small parties as well as larger groups, highlighting its versatility. This thoughtful spatial arrangement prioritizes comfort and community, with dedicated areas for sleeping, cooking, and social gatherings, thereby fostering a sense of camaraderie among visitors.

A key aspect of the project is its integration with the natural environment. The use of local materials is a significant design approach that not only enhances the hut's ecological footprint but also reflects the cultural heritage of the region. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) made from locally sourced plywood provide thermal insulation and structural stability, while yak wool is utilized for its natural insulating properties. The choice of recycled copper for roofing and cladding is both resourceful and aesthetically pleasing, demonstrating a responsible use of materials that aligns with environmental sustainability goals.

The construction techniques employed throughout the project further emphasize its role in the local community. By engaging local labor for building activities, the project not only supports the economy but also fosters a sense of ownership and pride within the community. This engagement is augmented by the use of materials and methods that are familiar to local builders, which reinforces cultural identity within the architectural framework.

Unique design approaches are central to the success of the Himalayan Mountain Hut. The incorporation of rainwater harvesting systems and solar photovoltaic panels exemplifies the project's commitment to ensuring self-sufficiency in remote locations. These elements not only enhance the hut's sustainability but also serve to educate occupants about responsible resource management in these delicate ecosystems. The hut's design facilitates a dialogue between the natural landscape and human habitation, establishing a harmonious relationship with the environment.

As visitors explore the architectural plans and sections of the Himalayan Mountain Hut, they will discover how each aspect of the design contributes to the overall efficacy of the structure. From the meticulous layout of communal spaces to the strategic placement of windows that frame breathtaking views, every detail has been thoughtfully considered. The project stands as an exemplar of how architecture can harmonize with the natural world while serving functional purposes for its users.

For those interested in understanding the breadth of this project, reviewing the architectural designs will provide deeper insights into the thoughtful planning and innovative ideas that underpin the Himalayan Mountain Hut. This exploration is encouraged for anyone keen to understand the nuances of modern, sustainable architecture in challenging terrains.
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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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