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Warmth of Copper and Radiant Heat in a Sustainable Trekking Shelter

Authors:
HAWKE GIHM, ANNI LEO
Warmth of Copper and Radiant Heat in a Sustainable Trekking Shelter

Project in-detail

The copper column captures rainwater and channels heat from a brick oven, providing a functional and sustainable shelter for trekkers in challenging outdoor environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
The shelter's roof is designed with an angled shape specifically for efficient rainwater collection.
02
A copper column channels collected rainwater into a durable rubber storage tank.
03
Radiant heat is generated from a chimney linked to a brick oven, enhancing thermal comfort.
04
Natural light floods the interior through strategically placed double pane windows.
05
Veneer pine sheets are used to create both structural integrity and a warm aesthetic.

The design centers around trekking and aims to provide essential comforts for those navigating challenging outdoor environments. It is set in a landscape that demands both resilience and adaptability, serving as a shelter for trekkers. The concept emphasizes the idea of leaving behind traditional comforts while still addressing the fundamental needs for heat and water.

Roof Design

The roof has an angular shape that allows for effective rainwater collection, an important feature of the design. Rainwater is directed into a copper column. This choice of material brings both durability and warmth to the structure. The collected water is funneled into a rubber storage tank, which is built to endure varying climate conditions, ensuring trekkers have access to water no matter the environment.

Heating System

A practical heating solution is created by incorporating a chimney within the copper column. This system expels smoke from a brick oven and warms the interior space. The design utilizes radiant heat transfer to provide comfort and to heat water. By combining these functions, the design addresses user needs in a straightforward manner.

Material Selection

A variety of materials are selected to contribute to the structure's strength and visual appeal. A double pane window is used to improve energy efficiency and bring natural light into the space. Additionally, the use of naturally curved and flattened veneer pine sheets adds to the design’s character while providing necessary support. Stainless steel tubing and plates enhance the durability needed for outdoor settings.

Spatial Configuration

The layout of the shelter reflects a careful thought process focused on the needs of the users. It seeks to create a balance between the inside and outside, improving the overall experience for trekkers. Key features like water management and effective heating systems show a commitment to practical living in natural surroundings.

The inclusion of a chimney that connects to a brick oven highlights the intention to create a warm atmosphere. This design detail ensures that trekkers can find comfort during their journey through the wilderness.

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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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