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Spherical Shelter Constructed with Translucent Plastic and Local Stone in the Himalayas

Authors:
PAUL HUGUET, AURELIEN CANTEGREL, FRANCIS BAUCHER
Spherical Shelter Constructed with Translucent Plastic and Local Stone in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

A translucent plastic dome atop a sturdy base of local stone creates a unique, spherical shelter that harmonizes with the Himalayan environment, serving as a retreat for climbers seeking both comfort and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Translucent plastic dome enhances natural light while providing effective insulation.
02
Spherical shape reduces wind impact and blends into the mountainous terrain.
03
Local stone construction connects the structure to its Himalayan environment.
04
Wind turbine integration promotes renewable energy use for self-sufficiency.
05
Flexible interior layout accommodates communal and private spaces for users.

### Project Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut is located in Nepal's high-altitude terrain, designed specifically to address the unique challenges of this environment. The structure aims to provide a self-sustaining shelter that maintains safety and warmth, allowing occupants to engage with the surrounding landscape while ensuring their comfort. The design integrates natural forms and local materials, reflecting a deep connection to its mountainous context.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The hut features a dual-layered structure consisting of an outer translucent dome that optimizes natural light and an inner robust base crafted from locally sourced materials. This spherical form serves to minimize wind resistance and offers expansive views of the scenery, promoting a collective experience among users. The layout accommodates flexible living areas, including communal spaces that encourage interaction. Notably, large panoramic windows enhance the occupants' connection to the landscape, providing a continual reminder of the natural environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices are driven by both functional and aesthetic considerations, emphasizing sustainability. A translucent plastic bubble provides insulation and light filtration, while native stone and wood integrate the hut harmoniously into its surroundings. The structural steel framework ensures stability under extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, innovative systems for energy generation and water recycling contribute to the hut's overall self-sufficiency and resilience, securing its functionality across varying climatic scenarios.

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

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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

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