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Spherical Form Crafted with Titanium Zinc and Timber Integration for Sustainable Mountain Living

Authors:
Alessandro Scipolo, Ciro Chiumenti, Elena Aldà, Rachele Cabrini
Spherical Form Crafted with Titanium Zinc and Timber Integration for Sustainable Mountain Living
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Crafted with titanium zinc and modular timber, the design's spherical forms harmonize with the mountainous landscape, offering a communal living space that emphasizes sustainability and adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with titanium zinc cladding for enhanced durability against harsh weather.
02
Incorporates modular design elements to allow flexible space configurations.
03
Utilizes a geothermal heating system to reduce energy consumption.
04
Features panoramic windows that enhance natural light and mountain views.
05
Integrates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.

### Overview
The "sNEwPals" project is situated in rugged mountainous terrain, characterized by three prominent peaks: Pema Peak (5,310 m), Phuma Peak (5,110 m), and Paldor Peak (5,928 m). The design concept draws from ecological, functional, and aesthetic considerations, creating a refuge that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The architecture incorporates spherical volumes inspired by snowball formations, emphasizing continuity and the dynamic nature of the landscape.

### Spatial Strategy
The layout is organized into two distinct floors to balance communal and private functions. The first floor accommodates shared spaces, including communal kitchens and living areas designed for interaction, enhanced by large windows that offer panoramic views of the mountains. The second floor is dedicated to private quarters, featuring en-suite bedrooms and recreational areas, ensuring user privacy while fostering a sense of community. This flexibility allows the space to be adapted for various uses, accommodating up to 20 guests and 4 staff members.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and durability. Wood and titanium zinc are pivotal; wood is utilized in internal structures for its lightweight and renewable qualities, while titanium zinc serves as the exterior cladding, providing long-lasting resistance to environmental conditions. Internal finishes include double particleboard for thermal and acoustic insulation and resin wood fiber board for wall panels.

Sustainable technologies are integral to the design, incorporating photovoltaic panels for energy production and water recycling systems to utilize snowmelt and rainwater. Circular openings in the structure enhance natural light and air circulation, contributing to energy efficiency. The design’s absence of corners mitigates structural stress and enhances spatial flow, facilitating both adaptability and ease of maintenance.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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