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Wind-Resistant Conical Huts Crafted from Lightweight Composite Materials for Alpine Shelter

Author:
WAI KONG NG
Wind-Resistant Conical Huts Crafted from Lightweight Composite Materials for Alpine Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with lightweight composite materials and designed as wind-resistant conical units, the shelter provides climbers with a communal living environment in the demanding conditions of the Himalayas.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using lightweight composite materials for efficient transport to the remote site.
02
Incorporates wind turbines on conical roofs for sustainable energy generation.
03
Features clustered design to enhance communal living among occupants.
04
Utilizes extensive glazing for natural light and panoramic mountain views.
05
Designed specifically to withstand alpine conditions while minimizing environmental impact.

# Architectural Report: Himalayan Mountain Hut Project

## Overview
Located in the Himalayan mountain range, this project addresses the specific challenges of extreme alpine conditions, providing a shelter that fosters community for climbers and trekkers. The design utilizes conical structures that enhance wind resistance, thermal performance, and structural stability, mirroring traditional mountain shelters while incorporating modern functionality.

## Material Selection
The material palette has been carefully selected to ensure durability and energy efficiency in the harsh environment. Softwood is extensively used for its insulating properties, providing essential warmth in colder conditions. Lightweight composite materials facilitate transportation and installation via helicopter, necessary due to the remote location. Glass is utilized for windows, maximizing natural light and offering views of the landscape. Metal reinforcements are incorporated in structural components to enhance resilience against extreme weather. Additionally, the integration of wind turbines enables energy generation, contributing to the hut’s sustainability goals through harnessed renewable energy.

## Spatial Configuration
The layout is strategically designed to encourage community interaction. The conical huts are arranged in clusters, each serving distinct functions. A shared camp area fosters communal living with a dining space and kitchen, while a high camp accommodates more intense expeditions. The interconnected spaces are visually represented as petals emanating from a central hub, promoting engagement among occupants.

Interior spaces focus on comfort and efficient use of space. The public area is equipped with facilities that support social interaction, while the living area features bunk beds for optimal space efficiency and insulation, ensuring warmth and rest for climbers after their outdoor activities. The design also incorporates wind turbines, which not only generate electricity but play a role in maintaining warmth, contributing to an autonomous living environment.

Overall, this project serves as an example of innovative design, effectively combining functional requirements with environmental considerations in a demanding climatic context.

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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

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