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Sustainable Shelter Utilizing Local Stone and Algorithmic Form in High-Altitude Living

Authors:
Tim Daniel Battelino, Lilit Poghosyan
Sustainable Shelter Utilizing Local Stone and Algorithmic Form in High-Altitude Living

Project in-detail

Incorporating local stone and algorithmically determined forms, this high-altitude shelter offers a sustainable living environment designed for resilience and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes algorithmic design to optimize form for high wind resistance.
02
Incorporates a rainwater collection system seamlessly into the roof structure.
03
Constructed with locally sourced stone enhancing thermal mass and stability.
04
Features solar panels and a wind turbine for renewable energy generation.
05
Designed with flexible interior layouts for communal and individual living needs.

### Project Overview

The Himalayan Hut project is situated in the high-altitude region of the Himalayas, where it seeks to integrate human habitation with the region's extreme environmental conditions. The design establishes a dialogue with the unique landscape, drawing inspiration from traditional Nepali Stupa structures. This approach not only addresses aesthetic considerations but also enhances the resilience of the huts against natural elements such as strong winds and heavy precipitation. The intent is to promote sustainable living practices while adhering to principles of "Natural Extremism."

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### Climate Resilience and Sustainability

The design prioritizes structural integrity and sustainability through several key features. The streamlined architectural forms are engineered to resist high winds, providing protection against the challenging climatic conditions of the region. A comprehensive water collection system is incorporated into the roof design, ensuring a reliable water supply year-round. This aligns with the project's aim to minimize resource dependence in a remote location.

In addition, the huts utilize a computational design methodology to optimize spatial arrangements according to specific environmental conditions. Incorporating renewable energy solutions such as solar windows and wind turbines further enhances self-sufficiency and energy efficiency, key factors in the overall design strategy.

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### Materiality and Functionality

The material selection emphasizes local resources and modern engineering to achieve both functionality and sustainability. The exterior is clad in locally sourced stone, providing structural stability and thermal mass, while metal components are utilized where durability and efficiency are paramount. This approach not only reflects the regional character but also supports the local economy by prioritizing indigenous materials.

Internally, the spatial layout is designed for both communal interaction and individual privacy. Sleeping areas accommodate multiple occupants, fostering a sense of community, while an open common area allows for varied activities. Essential service areas, including kitchen and bathroom facilities, are seamlessly integrated, ensuring that the design remains compact yet fully functional. The overall layout promotes efficient space utilization, contributing to the project's sustainability goals.

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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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