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Weatherproof Shelter Constructed with Reinforced Walls and Eco-Friendly Materials for High-Altitude Resilience

Authors:
Fajarsah Ananta, Fajarsah Ananta, Justyna Fleszar
Weatherproof Shelter Constructed with Reinforced Walls and Eco-Friendly Materials for High-Altitude Resilience
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Constructed with weatherproof reinforced walls and sustainable adobe materials, this mountain shelter is designed to provide resilient refuge in high-altitude environments, prioritizing community and energy efficiency.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with reinforced weatherproof walls to withstand extreme mountain conditions.
02
Utilizes sustainable adobe materials for enhanced thermal insulation.
03
Incorporates a modular design for easy assembly and customization.
04
Features integrated rainwater collection systems for self-sufficiency.
05
Includes communal living spaces to foster social interaction among residents.

**Overview**
The zaraNa Mountain Shelter is a prototype designed for high-altitude environments, specifically to meet the needs of individuals in challenging climatic conditions. It integrates functional and sustainable elements with an emphasis on safety, comfort, and adaptability. Suitable for deployment in mountainous regions such as the Himalayas or the Andes, the shelter is created to withstand extreme weather and seismic activities, reinforcing its relevance in contemporary mountain architecture.

**Materiality and Structural Integrity**
The design employs a range of materials, each selected for its durability and suitability to harsh climates. Weatherproof reinforced walls and roofs provide resilient protection against rain and snow, while adobe, combined with a rigid frame, enhances insulation and stability. The floor system is robust to accommodate heavy snow and foot traffic, contributing to overall safety. A metal framework serves as critical support, ensuring the structure can withstand seismic forces. Additionally, the integration of photo-voltaic cells introduces renewable energy capabilities, minimizing reliance on external power sources.

**Spatial Organization and Community Focus**
The interior of the zaraNa shelter emphasizes communal living while ensuring individual comfort. A modular layout facilitates easy assembly and adaptation to various terrains, while public spaces, such as a canteen with ample natural light and panoramic views, encourage social interaction. Private bedrooms equipped with bunk beds optimize space usage and provide a cozy atmosphere through the use of warm wood paneling. An inner courtyard serves as both a gathering point and a natural ventilation area, promoting community engagement in a protected environment. The overall design exemplifies a balance between private and communal needs, fostering a supportive living space amidst the challenges of the natural landscape.

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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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