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Triangular Shelter Crafted with Galvanized Steel and Thermal Insulation for Mountain Climbers

Authors:
Traian Coltan, Cristina Stamate, Mara Taric, Mihai Medvedovici
Triangular Shelter Crafted with Galvanized Steel and Thermal Insulation for Mountain Climbers

Project in-detail

Constructed from galvanized steel and enhanced with thermal insulation, this triangular shelter offers a resilient and self-sufficient haven for climbers navigating the challenges of high-altitude environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with modular components for efficient on-site assembly in remote locations.
02
Incorporates photovoltaic panels for autonomous power generation.
03
Utilizes mineral wool insulation to enhance thermal performance in extreme conditions.
04
Features a triangular design to optimize wind resistance and snow load capacity.
05
Integrates a water collection system that captures and utilizes natural resources.

### Overview

The mountain shelter is designed for extreme high-altitude environments, particularly in locations such as the Himalayas, where challenging weather conditions demand innovative architectural solutions. The principal objective is to provide a resilient habitat for climbers and explorers, incorporating sustainable practices and renewable energy integration. The design is informed by traditional Nepali architecture, especially the geometries found in religious structures, emphasizing durability and adaptability against harsh elements.

### Spatial Strategy

The shelter is organized into three levels, optimizing functionality within a compact footprint. The ground floor includes communal areas and vital amenities tailored for immediate needs, while the second level serves as sleeping quarters, featuring storage options and panoramic views that enhance the occupants' connection to the surrounding landscape. The interior layout accounts for limited space yet prioritizes comfort and utility. Natural light enters the shelter through strategically placed glazed triangular modules, maximizing solar gain and reducing dependence on artificial lighting, thereby improving the overall spatial experience.

### Materiality and Assembly

The architectural form employs a geometric approach based on pyramidal structures, constructed from modular triangular components. The exterior utilizes galvanized steel sheets for weather resistance, complemented by a wooden frame that adds warmth to the interior. Insulation is provided by mineral wool, while vapor barriers ensure moisture control. The modular design facilitates efficient on-site assembly, enabling transport to remote locations with minimal skilled labor requirements. This method enhances construction efficiency, reducing both time and resource consumption. Additionally, the incorporation of energy-generation systems, such as photovoltaic panels and a water collection system, further emphasizes the shelter's sustainability and self-sufficiency in isolated environments.

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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
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