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Translucent Bamboo Shelter Utilizing Modular Prefabrication for Mountain Refuge

Authors:
Paola D'Alfonso, Simone Calò, Stefano Foà, Giada Lanciano
Translucent Bamboo Shelter Utilizing Modular Prefabrication for Mountain Refuge

Project in-detail

Utilizing a conical form crafted from translucent materials and bamboo, this mountain refuge integrates sustainable practices and modular prefabrication to provide essential shelter for climbers in the Himalayan landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes bamboo as a primary structural element for both durability and sustainability.
02
Features a unique conical shape that enhances stability against harsh weather conditions.
03
Incorporates photovoltaic panels to provide renewable energy for operations.
04
Employs a modular prefabrication approach to streamline construction in remote locations.
05
Includes a rainwater harvesting system for efficient water management.

## Project Overview

Located at the Paidor Base Camp in the Himalayas of Nepal, the DOKO Mountain Hut is situated at an altitude of 4,280 meters. Designed to meet the essential needs of trekkers and climbers, the structure functions as a refuge during extreme weather conditions. The design incorporates sustainable technologies and references local cultural architecture, aiming to foster a connection between users and their surroundings.

### Design Inspiration and Structural Integrity

The architectural form of the DOKO Mountain Hut is inspired by traditional Nepali structures, featuring a frustoconical shape reminiscent of woven bamboo huts. This design not only reflects cultural heritage but also serves functional purposes such as enhanced stability against high winds and snow loads. The distinct conical silhouette fosters an inviting atmosphere while optimizing natural light dispersal within the space, echoing the principles found in traditional designs.

### Material Selection and User Experience

The materials chosen for construction exemplify a balance between local resources and modern technology. Key elements include woven bamboo shoots for structural integrity, translucent flakes that provide natural illumination while ensuring privacy, and laminated wood for enhanced durability. Moreover, the integration of photovoltaic panels for energy generation and cement-based prefabricated modules ensures effective temperature control.

Organized over three levels, the hut’s spatial configuration maximizes user comfort and efficiency. The ground floor houses communal areas conducive to social interaction, while the upper levels provide sleeping quarters designed for shared use, promoting both privacy and community living. Natural light is harnessed throughout the structure to optimize views and airflow, supporting a positive user experience in the mountain environment.

### Construction Process and Sustainability Features

Construction methods have been tailored to accommodate the challenges of the remote location. Prefabricated elements are manufactured off-site and transported via helicopter to minimize landscape disturbance. The assembly process focuses on quick erection of structural frames and installation of external systems.

Sustainable technologies are a hallmark of the design, incorporating solar power systems for electricity and essential operational functions, as well as water collection systems that capture rain and snowmelt for essential use. An eco-friendly waste management system enhances hygiene while minimizing ecological impact, aligning with contemporary goals for sustainable building practices in challenging environments.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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