Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Thinned Wood Construction with Overlapping Roofs in a Sustainable Mountain Habitat

Author:
KOHKI HIRANUMA
Thinned Wood Construction with Overlapping Roofs in a Sustainable Mountain Habitat

Project in-detail

Utilizing thinned wood and modular assembly, the design integrates overlapping roofs to manage environmental elements efficiently, creating a sustainable habitat for trekkers in the Himalayan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes thinned wood, a material often discarded in construction, promoting sustainability.
02
Designed with overlapping roofs that effectively manage rain and snow accumulation.
03
Features a modular assembly system allowing for rapid construction by hand in remote locations.
04
Gaps in the wall panels enhance natural ventilation and light penetration throughout the structure.
05
Incorporates panoramic glass panels to connect interior spaces with the surrounding Himalayan landscape.
The Forest Hut is an architectural project located in the Himalayan region, designed to integrate seamlessly with its natural surroundings while addressing the need for sustainable habitation in challenging environments. The structure serves as a shelter for trekkers and nature enthusiasts, emphasizing environmental responsibility and innovative design strategies. The project showcases a meticulous selection of materials, construction methods, and expressive forms that promote both functionality and aesthetic coherence.

Adaptation of Materials and Assembly

The Forest Hut utilizes thinned wood sourced from sustainable logging practices, which minimizes waste by repurposing materials often discarded during traditional construction processes. The use of lightweight threaded rods facilitates easy assembly, allowing the modular components to be quickly and efficiently erected by hand. This approach not only reduces the need for heavy machinery but also enables adaptability in various on-site conditions. Crushed stone is employed for the foundation, allowing for breathability and stability in the mountainous terrain.

The architectural layout consists of overlapping roofs designed to manage rain and snow effectively. The structural form echoes the rugged landscape, reflecting the topography while offering panoramic views of the Himalayan vistas through strategically placed glass panels. Interior design prioritizes natural light and flexible space usage, allowing the hut to serve as both a communal gathering area and a tranquil resting space.

Innovative Integration with the Environment

One of the unique aspects of The Forest Hut is its specific organizational strategy that promotes sustainability through an efficient use of natural light and ventilation. The gaps between the wood panels are functional, designed to enable airflow while reducing reliance on artificial lighting. This feature enhances energy efficiency and minimizes the overall environmental footprint of the structure.

Furthermore, the design philosophy emphasizes the interaction between occupants and their environment. By creating an open-plan layout, users can engage with both the interior and the exterior landscapes, fostering a sense of connection with nature. The structure is adaptable, with an emphasis on modular components that allow for potential future expansions or modifications, addressing the varying needs of its users.

Sustainability and Functionality

The Forest Hut reflects a commitment to sustainability through its architectural choices, promoting a model for responsible design in remote locations. The combination of thinned wood, modern assembly techniques, and an emphasis on natural light works collectively to lower energy consumption and environmental impact. The project represents a significant move towards greener architecture in mountainous areas while providing essential shelter for users seeking refuge in nature.

For further insights into The Forest Hut, including detailed architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural designs, we invite you to explore the project presentation. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of the architectural ideas and outcomes that define this significant contribution to sustainable mountain architecture.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy