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Teflon Membrane Dome and Local Stone Structure for High-Altitude Communal Retreat

Author:
ana maria machedon
Teflon Membrane Dome and Local Stone Structure for High-Altitude Communal Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with a Teflon membrane dome and local stone, the high-altitude lodge offers a communal retreat for climbers, designed to withstand extreme weather while fostering community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a Teflon membrane dome for natural light and insulation.
02
Constructed with local stone to enhance durability in extreme environments.
03
Features adaptable tent shelters for flexible accommodations.
04
Incorporates solar panels for renewable energy supply.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable water management.

## Project Overview

Located in high-altitude regions such as the Himalayas, the lodge is designed to meet the specific needs of climbers operating in extreme environments. It comprises a series of individual sleeping units, tent shelters, and a central communal space defined by a large dome. This spatial arrangement fosters social interaction while ensuring essential amenities are available in a challenging setting.

### Architectural Configuration

The lodge features a circular layout centered around a dome that serves as a focal point for communal activities. Each sleeping unit is designed to accommodate four beds, promoting rest and recovery after climbing expeditions. The central dome functions as a lounge and discussion area, with circular benches providing additional sleeping options if necessary. Essential facilities, including bathrooms and a kitchen, are strategically integrated into the design, alongside flexible external tent shelters for added accommodation.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The structural integrity of the lodge is achieved through a combination of traditional and innovative materials. Local stones are used for the main body, while a lightweight metal structure facilitates ease of transport and installation. The dome is enveloped in a Teflon EFTE membrane, allowing natural light to permeate while ensuring thermal insulation. Sustainability is a key design principle, with features such as solar panels for renewable energy, rainwater harvesting systems, and a biological water management system implemented to support environmental stewardship. The thoughtful integration of advanced materials with traditional construction techniques represents a deliberate balance between cultural heritage and modern functionality.

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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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