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Yak Dung Heating and Glu-Lam Structure for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Author:
Anna Wynne
Yak Dung Heating and Glu-Lam Structure for Sustainable Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

Harnessing yak dung for biomass heating and utilizing a glu-lam structural framework, the design offers a sustainable and communal shelter solution for climbers at Paldor Basecamp.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced yak dung for efficient biomass heating.
02
Incorporates a glu-lam structural framework for enhanced stability.
03
Features integrated climbing holds for training opportunities.
04
Includes a communal kitchen to foster community among climbers.
05
Incorporates cork insulation for optimal thermal performance.

### Project Overview

The Nepal Mountain Tech Tent, situated at Paldor Basecamp, is designed to provide shelter for mountaineers operating in extreme alpine environments. Its architectural form responds to the challenging terrain and high-altitude conditions of the Himalayas, aiming to modernize the experience of high-altitude acclimatization while reflecting the local cultural context. The primary intent is to create a facility that serves as a comfortable and functional hub for climbers, emphasizing safety and community.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout of the tech tent mirrors the spatial configurations found in traditional Nepalese housing, while incorporating contemporary amenities. Sleeping areas are designed with upper and lower berths to efficiently accommodate multiple occupants. A communal kitchen promotes social interaction and sustenance for expedition teams, while hygienic facilities, including showers and restrooms, are integrated to prioritize comfort. Additionally, the inclusion of climbing holds within the structure supports physical training, blending functionality with recreational possibilities.

### Material Selection and Environmental Considerations

Material choices for the construction of the tent are informed by local resources and sustainability principles. Glued laminated timber (glulam) beams provide necessary structural integrity, complemented by lightweight aluminum panels that resist corrosion. Cork insulation offers excellent thermal performance suitable for extreme temperatures, while stainless steel connectors ensure durability. The use of locally sourced densified yak dung for heating aligns with sustainable practices and further emphasizes the project’s commitment to environmental responsibility. This strategic selection of materials not only enhances resilience but also fosters a connection to the regional 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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