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Sustainable Mountain Retreat Crafted From Local Stone and High-Performance Metal Cladding

Authors:
Clare Murray, Daniel Liston, Davide Bello, Will Mackey
Sustainable Mountain Retreat Crafted From Local Stone and High-Performance Metal Cladding

Project in-detail

Crafted with local stone and metal cladding, this alpine retreat provides climbers with a functional shelter that seamlessly integrates into the rugged landscape of Paldor, Nepal.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced stone to blend with the natural terrain.
02
Features high-performance metal cladding for durability in extreme weather conditions.
03
Incorporates communal spaces designed to foster interaction among climbers.
04
Utilizes organic pathways that integrate seamlessly into the mountainous landscape.
05
Employs sustainable practices, including solar energy systems for reduced environmental impact.

### Project Overview
The "Half Way" hut is situated in the mountainous region of Paldor, Nepal, serving as a shelter designed specifically for climbers during their ascent and descent. The project addresses the accommodation needs inherent to this challenging environment, creating a functional retreat that supports the climbers' journey. The architectural intent is to enhance the climbing experience by providing a sustainable and affordable facility that integrates with its natural surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration
The layout of the hut features alternating accommodation and service modules, promoting both privacy and communal interaction. The strategically angled accommodation units optimize sunlight access and provide climbers with comfortable recovery spaces, while the service modules are designed to support activities such as cooking and equipment storage. Central communal areas foster social bonds among climbers, enhancing their collective experience in the alpine environment.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Construction materials for the hut have been carefully selected to reflect the local context and ensure durability. The use of local stone for foundational elements, metal cladding for the roof and walls, and natural timber for interior finishes contributes to the structure's resilience in harsh climatic conditions. High-performance thermal insulation helps maintain indoor comfort, while the incorporation of solar energy systems and efficient water management strategies align with sustainability principles, reducing the ecological footprint of the project. The reliance on local craftsmen for construction further supports community engagement and promotes economic development in the region.

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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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