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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
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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 2026
MICROHOME 2026
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11
The Next House: USA
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20,000 USD Prize
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026
100,000€ Prize / 2026

The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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