Get inspired!

17,495 architecture projects

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

Sustainable Clay and Riverstone Structures Shaping Community Life in the Himalayas

Authors:
Calin Segal, Attali Tiffany, Gerolamo Gnecchi, Hicham Filali
Sustainable Clay and Riverstone Structures Shaping Community Life in the Himalayas

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced riverstone and clay, the design integrates tiered structures that promote community interaction while supporting sustainable agricultural practices in the Himalayan environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes tiered structures inspired by traditional pagodas to blend with the Himalayan landscape.
02
Incorporates locally sourced riverstone and clay for sustainable building practices.
03
Features hydroponic systems that reduce water usage and promote local food production.
04
Includes renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, to support self-sufficiency.
05
Designed as a communal hub to enhance interaction between residents and visitors.
The architectural project Pagodic Proliferation is situated within the context of the Himalayan region, designed to foster community interaction while providing sustainable living conditions. This project integrates architectural design with local cultural themes, employing a pagoda-inspired form that resonates with the area's traditional aesthetics. The function of this project encompasses residential, communal, and agricultural spaces, reflecting a commitment to self-sufficiency and ecological sustainability.

The architectural layout is organized around a central communal unit, serving as the heart of the project. This nucleus features multi-functional areas designed for living, dining, and community gatherings, ensuring that residents and visitors engage regularly. Surrounding this hub are private living units that maintain individual privacy while still promoting social interaction. The project also incorporates agricultural units dedicated to hydroponic farming, emphasizing sustainable practices that utilize minimal resources.

The design reflects a unique approach by intertwining traditional architectural elements with modern techniques. The tiered structure of the pagoda form not only provides visual interest but also functions efficiently within the alpine environment, managing daylight and reducing heat loss.

Innovative Material Usage

A noteworthy aspect of the Pagodic Proliferation project is its careful selection of materials, which prioritize local sourcing and environmental compatibility. The design employs stones collected from nearby riverbeds for structural integrity, complemented by prefabricated steel elements that expedite construction processes. Clay walls enhance thermal comfort while ensuring a connection to local building traditions. Additionally, the incorporation of hydroponic systems supports sustainable food production, demonstrating an integrated approach to architecture that addresses both human needs and environmental concerns.

This project distinguishes itself through its integration of renewable energy solutions, including wind turbines that harness natural resources to power the facilities. The design's focus on creating a self-sufficient ecosystem equates to a model for future sustainable architecture, particularly in remote areas.

Architectural Synergy and Community Engagement

The architecture of Pagodic Proliferation is engineered to enhance community cohesion. The spatial design encourages interaction among residents and visitors, facilitating a cultural exchange that is essential for community development. This synthesis of private and public spaces fosters a sense of belonging and promotes shared experiences, vital in a region where community ties can significantly influence quality of life.

In summary, the Pagodic Proliferation project offers an insightful exploration of architectural design that prioritizes sustainable living and community interaction. For further exploration of this project, interested readers are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and designs to gain deeper insights into the innovative ideas embedded in this architectural endeavor.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
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 17,495 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