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Sloping Roof Structure Crafted From Natural Stone and Timber for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Authors:
james dyson, james dyson
Sloping Roof Structure Crafted From Natural Stone and Timber for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

A sloping roof constructed from charred wooden shingles and a robust natural stone base forms an eco-sensitive mountain shelter designed for trekkers, emphasizing energy efficiency and communal living in a high-altitude environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the exterior enhances durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates extensive natural stone elements for thermal mass and local aesthetic integration.
03
Features photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof design for renewable energy generation.
04
Utilizes a bent A-frame structure to optimize space while providing structural stability.
05
Designed for communal living, promoting social interactions among high-altitude trekkers.

The Himalayan Mountain Hut in Nepal represents a purposeful architectural design tailored to meet the needs of visitors in a high-altitude environment. The project emphasizes sustainability, functionality, and integration with its natural surroundings. Designed primarily for trekkers and climbers, the hut serves as both a shelter and a communal gathering space.

The structure is characterized by its robust construction suitable for harsh weather conditions typical of the Himalayas. Architectural elements include a central core with surrounding sleeping decks, communal areas for dining and social interaction, and large windows for natural light and views. The roof integrates photovoltaic panels to harness renewable energy, contributing to the building's self-sufficiency.

Sustainability is a fundamental aspect of the design. The use of local materials such as natural stone and timber ensures durability while minimizing the environmental footprint. Additionally, systems for rainwater harvesting and greywater recycling have been included to promote resource efficiency.

Unique Adaptation to Environment The architectural response to the extreme climatic conditions in the Himalayas sets this project apart from similar mountain retreats. The sloping roof design not only addresses snow accumulation but also facilitates efficient drainage. The layered arrangement of sleeping accommodations enhances privacy while maximizing the use of vertical space, enabling the hut to accommodate multiple visitors without sacrificing comfort.

The strategic placement of communal areas encourages interaction among users, fostering a sense of community in an isolated environment. By utilizing large glass openings, the hut blends interior spaces with the breathtaking external landscape, enhancing the overall experience for occupants.

Sustainable Construction Techniques The project employs a combination of traditional and modern construction techniques. The use of stone for walls provides thermal mass, aiding in temperature regulation within the structure. Timber elements add warmth and ease of construction, ensuring that the building can be assembled with minimal disturbance to the site.

Details such as insulation techniques and energy-efficient materials reinforce the hut's sustainability. Consideration of local ecology during the design ensures that the project minimally impacts the surrounding area, preserving the natural landscape for future generations.

For further exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and detailed designs of the Himalayan Mountain Hut, please review the project presentation to gain deeper insights into the innovative architectural ideas and methodologies employed in this unique mountain dwelling.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invites architects and designers to create iconic public sculptures for one of two sites in Saudi Arabia: Abu Hadriyah Road or the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar. Proposals should reflect Saudi identity, culture, and future aspirations.

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The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge is an international architecture and design competition inviting creatives to shape the future of Saudi Arabia’s public spaces. With a total prize fund of €50,000, the competition calls for sculptural proposals that merge cultural symbolism with innovative design, offering participants a chance to see their concepts brought to life in a rapidly transforming national context.

Organised by Buildner in partnership with the Mujassam Watan Initiative, the challenge focuses on two prominent locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a major highway and gateway into the Eastern Province, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a pedestrian-focused waterfront district. Designers must select one site and develop a sculpture that engages with its surroundings—whether addressing the fast-paced dynamism of a transit corridor or creating moments of interaction along a coastal promenade.

Proposals should be bold, site-specific, and rooted in narrative—drawing on themes such as heritage, national identity, transformation, and dialogue. Environmental responsiveness, material durability, and feasibility are strongly encouraged, as winning projects may be selected for actual construction.

Each submission must include four A2 landscape presentation boards, a cover image, and a written project description. The competition is open to professionals and students alike, working individually or in teams of up to four people. No professional license is required.

Registration is open until July 24, 2025, with final submissions due by August 27, 2025. Winners will be announced on October 1, 2025.

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 24 July 2025

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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