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Sustainable Retreat Featuring Galvanized Steel and Natural Wood Integration in Mountainous Terrain

Authors:
Lovisa Thorsén, Vicki Buhl Lausen, Lovisa Thorsén
Sustainable Retreat Featuring Galvanized Steel and Natural Wood Integration in Mountainous Terrain

Project in-detail

Crafted from galvanized steel and natural wood, this modular retreat in the Himalayas seamlessly integrates sustainable features and adaptable spaces, providing essential accommodation for adventurers in a challenging environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using local galvanized steel for durability and weather resistance.
02
Integrates solar power generation and rainwater harvesting systems for sustainability.
03
Each module designed for modular transport and adaptive use on site.
04
Employs natural vegetation for efficient wastewater management.
05
Features pitched roofs mimicking the surrounding mountain landscape.

### Overview
Located in the Himalayan region, the Modular Mountain project seeks to integrate human habitation with the dramatic landscape while prioritizing sustainability. This initiative offers a retreat designed for trekkers and adventurers, focusing on minimizing ecological impact while enhancing the visitor experience through thoughtful architectural solutions.

### Spatial Configuration
The design comprises seven distinct modular units that serve various functions, including kitchens, communal areas, storage, retail spaces, and sleeping quarters. Each module is strategically arranged to facilitate communal interaction while also ensuring privacy in more secluded alcoves. This configuration supports diverse activities, ranging from social gatherings to solitary moments of reflection.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Local materials have been selected for their durability and low maintenance properties, with key elements including galvanized steel for exterior cladding and treated wood paneling for aesthetic and functional benefits. Thermal insulation materials are also integrated into the design to improve energy efficiency. The incorporation of solar panels fosters renewable energy use, while sophisticated water collection and natural vegetation management systems contribute to resource conservation. Rainwater harvesting and natural filtration using willow trees exemplify the project's commitment to ecological integrity. Modules are engineered for easy transport and assembly on-site, allowing for adaptability to various terrains and environmental conditions, ultimately reducing construction waste and promoting sustainability.

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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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