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Yak Wool Insulation and Gabion Foundations in Modular Mountain Shelter

Authors:
Beverley Salmon, Yanchee Lau, David Grove, Richard Nightingale
Yak Wool Insulation and Gabion Foundations in Modular Mountain Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with yak wool insulation and gabion foundations, the shelter provides a sustainable and adaptable solution for trekkers navigating the harsh Himalayan environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for quick assembly in remote locations.
02
Utilizes local materials such as yak wool and stone for thermal efficiency.
03
Gabion foundations blend structure into the natural landscape.
04
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability against harsh weather.
05
Integrated solar panels power essential systems sustainably.

### Overview

The Himalayan Mountain Hut project is situated in the Nepalese Himalayas and addresses the environmental, climatic, and cultural challenges specific to mountainous regions. The design emphasizes modularity, flexibility, and sustainability, integrating local craftsmanship with contemporary requirements. The primary intent is to create a series of shelters that serve trekkers and climbers while reflecting the landscape and cultural traditions of the area.

### Configurable Spatial Organization

The architectural design incorporates various layout configurations to accommodate different group sizes and needs. These include distinct zones for sleeping, communal gathering, cooking, and hygiene facilities, all tailored to enhance user experience. The modular approach allows for adaptability in construction and functionality, ensuring that the facility meets specific site conditions while optimizing utility.

### Sustainable Material Choices

The choice of materials is informed by local availability and environmental impact. Structural Insulated Panels (SIPs) are utilized for the roofs and walls, providing thermal insulation and strength. Recycled copper is employed for cladding, reducing waste while enhancing durability, and yak wool insulation ensures thermal comfort. Locally sourced timber forms the structural framework, aligning with traditional building practices. Gabion cages, filled with local stones, serve as foundational elements, promoting stability and environmental integration.

Additional sustainability measures include photovoltaic panels for renewable energy, rainwater harvesting systems for water conservation, and composting toilets to minimize waste. These features collectively support a low environmental footprint while fulfilling the needs of users in a remote setting.

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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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