Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Spherical Forms Crafted From Titanium Zinc and Sustainable Wood Nestled In The Nepalese Peaks

Authors:
Alessandro Scipolo, Ciro Chiumenti, Elena Aldà, Rachele Cabrini
Spherical Forms Crafted From Titanium Zinc and Sustainable Wood Nestled In The Nepalese Peaks

Project in-detail

Constructed with spherical forms of titanium zinc and sustainable wood, this communal retreat in the Nepalese mountains offers an energy-efficient haven for guests seeking tranquility and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using titanium zinc for enhanced durability against the harsh mountain climate.
02
Spherical shapes promote natural airflow and optimal sunlight exposure throughout the day.
03
Features integrated water recovery systems to repurpose melted snow for sustainable use.
04
The design encourages community interaction while ensuring privacy through strategic spatial organization.
05
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and energy efficiency.

## Project Overview

*sNEwPALs* is situated within the mountainous landscapes of the Pema and Paldor peaks in Nepal, reaching elevations of 5,310 meters and 5,928 meters, respectively. The intent is to create a refuge that harmonizes with its natural surroundings while addressing the needs of occupants. Emphasizing sustainability, functionality, and distinct aesthetics, the design is informed by both environmental considerations and the philosophy of community connectivity, drawing conceptual inspiration from the image of snowballs.

## Material Design Strategy

The material selections for *sNEwPALs* are central to its sustainability objectives and environmental integration. Key materials include:

- **Wood**: Lightweight and sustainably sourced, utilized extensively in structural elements.
- **Titanium Zinc Cladding**: Durable exterior finish that promotes weather resistance and reduces environmental impact.
- **Insulation Materials**: Double particle board, MDF, wood fiber board, and rigid fiberboard enhance thermal and acoustic performance.
- **Sustainable Technologies**: Photovoltaic panels are incorporated for energy independence, alongside water recovery systems for reusing collected snow.

These materials are chosen for their low environmental impact and high performance, aligning with the project's commitment to sustainability.

## Spatial Configuration and Experience

The design implements interconnected spherical volumes, achieved through a modernist approach that prioritizes fluid spatial experiences. Key features include:

- **Spherical Forms**: The absence of corners minimizes interior constraints, fostering openness.
- **Circular Portholes**: Designed to maximize natural light and provide panoramic views, enhancing user experience.
- **Functional Layouts**: Interior spaces are organized to promote interaction, with dedicated areas for communal dining, accommodation, and essential services.

The ground floor incorporates vital amenities to create collaborative environments, while the first floor enhances social interaction through strategic placements of relaxation and dining zones. Vertical connections via integrated staircases facilitate movement throughout the structure.

The aesthetic quality of the design mirrors organic forms and materials in nature. The polished metallic exterior reflects the snowy surroundings, allowing the structure to blend into the landscape while creating dynamic visual effects through the interplay of light and shadow.

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

`

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