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Tensile Membrane Structure with Rainwater Harvesting for Himalayan Refuge

Authors:
Qihong Wang, Hongyi Zhuang
Tensile Membrane Structure with Rainwater Harvesting for Himalayan Refuge
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Crafted with a tensile membrane structure and integrated rainwater harvesting, the design provides a resilient refuge for trekkers in the challenging Himalayan environment, emphasizing adaptability and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a tensile membrane structure to adapt to varying weather conditions.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
03
Features a multi-layer curtain system to modulate light and privacy effectively.
04
Constructed with local crushed stone to enhance environmental integration.
05
Design prioritizes modularity, allowing for flexible spatial configurations.

### Project Overview
Located in the high-altitude landscapes of Nepal, the design addresses the unique challenges posed by diverse climatic conditions and traditional architectural influences of the region. The structure is intended to provide a refuge for trekkers and explorers, fostering a connection to the surrounding mountainous environment while ensuring both functionality and comfort.

### Structural Configuration
**Core Layout and Modularity:**
The design features a layout structured around three distinct cores that cater to different functional needs: communal spaces, semi-private areas, and fully private quarters. This arrangement allows for a variety of interactions and levels of privacy, accommodating diverse visitor requirements. A modular approach enables the building to adapt to the region's unpredictable weather, providing spaces for both communal gatherings and individual reflection.

**Curtain System Innovation:**
A notable element of the design is the multi-layer curtain system, which offers occupants the ability to control light, privacy, and airflow. Different transparency levels allow for adjusting atmospheres in communal, semi-private, and private areas, enhancing user experience and flexibility within the space.

### Environmental Sustainability
**Responsive Design Elements:**
The project incorporates a tensile membrane structure that can adapt to varying weather conditions, maintaining comfort during both sunny and inclement weather. Sustainable systems, such as a rainwater harvesting mechanism and the integration of wind turbines, aim to establish energy self-sufficiency while minimizing ecological impact.

**Material Choice:**
The construction employs locally sourced materials including concrete for structural integrity, crushed stone for exterior walls, screw steel wire for internal frames, and wood to add warmth to interior spaces. These choices reflect a commitment to environmental integration, reinforcing the building's connection to its surroundings while ensuring durability against the region's harsh conditions.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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