himalayanarchitectureandplanning

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Reflecting from the Himalayas: Our Journey as Jurors for the Materia Award 2025

This year held an extra layer of meaning for our sister firm SMA and us. Sagarmatha Next— mountaineering waste upcycling center near Everest—was officially welcomed into the Materia Award family on 22 March 2025 in Paris. Selected by a distinguished jury of 15 professionals and scientists, the project was included in both the Materia exhibition and the accompanying publication, Stone: 40 Best Contemporary Sustainable Architecture Projects in the World. Architect Himanshu Lal, a key member of the design and execution team, was in Paris to receive this international recognition on behalf of SMA, making it a super proud and reflective moment for all of us rooted in the Himalayas.

To be counted among the top 40 projects in the global Materia Award 2025 is a humbling recognition. Rooted in the spirit of place and material—so deeply aligned with the Himalayan ethos—this honor came with a beautiful invitation from Prof. Anne: to pause, reflect, and engage deeply with the other 39 selected works from around the world.

Together, as Team SMA from Kathmandu and Team HAP from Bhimtal, we also stepped into the role of Himalayan jurors, grounding our perspectives in the mountains we call home. Over days of review and deliberation, we curated our personal Top 5 from the shortlisted entries—projects that spoke not only to innovation and sustainability but to cultural continuity, the dignity of materials, and human-scale craft.

Each of the 11 jury members brought a lens informed by their local terrain and traditions. On the morning of March 26th, we came together—across regions and time zones—to listen, debate, and learn from one another. The following day, we cast our votes.

The entries stretched across climates and cultures: from Housing Now’s affordable bamboo housing solution in Myanmar, to the restoration of a barrack built with earth and thatch in El Palmar, to a rest house entirely clad in scallop shells. What unified them all was a rootedness in local context and a commitment to ecological intelligence.

After careful reflection, our collective selection of five projects stood out:

Le Costil House, France A thoughtful extension of a traditional brick house, aiming for 0% concrete, 0% plastic, and 100% natural materials—wattle-and-daub, light earth, lime plaster, and hemp—demonstrating how heritage materials can guide future architecture.

Medical Surgical Center, Burkina Faso A powerful response to resource constraints, this center uplifts local materials—adobe, straw, and laterite—while celebrating the wisdom of vernacular craftsmanship.

La Bricole, France A poetic celebration of reuse, reinterpreting reclaimed wood and hemp into a space that feels both familiar and forward-looking.

Low-Cost Housing, Sahel, Mauritania A modular, scalable housing solution by Architecture et Développement au Sahel, using Nubian vault adobe techniques.

Casa Lasso, Ecuador A grounded yet ambitious project that draws from Cotopaxi’s vernacular traditions. Built with rammed earth and local labour, it’s as much about construction as it is about community learning and continuity.

The Materia Awards invited us into an exploration—a pilgrimage of sorts—through material cultures and sustainable imaginations. What we found reaffirmed something we’ve long known in the mountains: sustainability is not a constraint—it is a path of creativity, humility, and beauty.

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A-Frame Retreat: Elevating a Homestay with Contemporary Mountain Elegance, Bhimtal.

The design of this project reimagines an existing unremarkable RCC standard homestay —by introducing a striking mountain architecture, based on A-frame technology. The conceptual design approach reinvents saddle-roof tradition ( snow/hail/monsoon resistant) with an innovative spatial quality, abundant natural light, and a seamless indoor-outdoor user experience.

The principal of the project came to HAP as he was looking for the design power of a team of architects who understand mountain terrains, local traditions and who are able to balance aesthetics with functionality in the lightweight A-frame structure technology.

The infographics show the conceptual steps we took with the triangular form with 65-degree angles, ensuring both structural integrity and a striking contemporary mountain character.

With our new team members Pavani & Santosh ( both from South India), we hope to take this exciting project further to the next level in 2025, following the sustainability guiding principles -locally sourced materials, passive climate control strategies, and energy-efficient design, while keeping beauty at the core of what we create in the serene hills of Bhimtal.

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Global Visions, Local Disconnects: ‘Starchitects’ in the Himalayas

Nepal, a country with a rich architectural heritage, has long inspired architects worldwide. From the ornate palaces of the Malla dynasty to intricate temple designs, the country reflects a balance between aesthetics and practicality. However, questions arise about the harmony between international visions and local traditions as global icons of architecture attempt to leave their mark on Nepal. The Indian Himalayas, much like their Nepali sister, are an architectural enigma. At HAP, Bhimtal, we believe that while global attention gravitates toward high-profile "starchitects" reshaping urban skylines worldwide, the delicate balance of the Himalayan region—its culture, environment, and identity—requires a distinct approach.

Recent articles by Himal Southasian and Nepali Times have sparked a discussion on the works of globally acclaimed architects—Tadao Ando, Rem Koolhaas, and Shigeru Ban—in Nepal. While these ‘starchitects’ are celebrated, their projects in Nepal have drawn mainly criticism. The articles also question the readiness by the Nepali public at large, to recognize great contemporary architecture, in this case a building by Louis I.Kahn in Kathmandu.

Vernacular Wisdom: A Foundation for Sustainable Design

The traditional architecture of the Himalayas, from the Nepali Newar to the techniques of Koti Banal and Kathkuni of the Indian Himalayas, reflects a profound ecological and cultural wisdom. These time-honored structures embody sustainability principles, skillful usage of local materials, taking in account climate and customs, creating designs that harmonize seamlessly with the Himalayan cultural landscapes.

However, many traditional practices are presently completely overshadowed by reinforced cement concrete (RCC) structures with brick infill. Cold Formed Steel (CFS) and cement boards are also getting popular. While functional, pure modern technique buildings often lack the internal comfort, environmental sensitivity (heaters and AC-s are needed) and the cultural depth of vernacular designs. As Professor Anne Feenstra notes, "Vernacular knowledge is not to be copied, but to be inspired from."

The Starchitect Paradox

The arrival of several starchitects in Nepal brought excitement. But while their design intentions are innovative, they also lack an understanding of the disconnected from the Himalayan wisdom. These projects often appear as adaptations of global portfolios rather than bespoke responses to Nepal’s, or Uttarakhand’s unique needs.

Tadao Ando’s minimalist exposed concrete style, contrasting with nature, seemed a very interesting opportunity for Nepal’s landscape. However, his hospital design did not redefine modern Nepali architecture at all. Rem Koolhaas's oeuvre of groundbreaking architectural interventions has struggled to provide a clear direction for Nepal's contemporary architectural ambitions. Shigeru Ban, known for his sustainable material projects, also fell short in creating meaningful and useful works in the post 2015 earthquake scenario of Nepal’s reconstruction. In the two articles, the works of these architects have been questioned and criticized. 

We at HAP would argue that perhaps in the Himalayan setting, they all miss the "slow architecture" ethos—an approach that embraces time, local engagement, and a deep understanding of place. This critique underscores the delicate balance between global innovation and contextual relevance.

The articles describe that Louis I. Kahn, the modernist giant, was perhaps the unluckiest of the four. Despite his visionary design for a Public Health ministry building, it was based on an approach which embraced time, local engagement, and a deeper understanding of place. While the building in Kathmandu was under construction, Kahn tragically passed away. 

Contemporary Himalayan Architecture experiments

Attempts in Nepal fail often to resonate with the region's socio-environmental reality. Similarly, in the Indian Himalayas, global architectural philosophies must evolve to account for local topographies, climatic sensitivities, and cultural underpinnings. India's Himalayan region has long served as a crucible for architectural experimentation—whether through colonial-era hill stations like Shimla or contemporary projects such as the Dalai Lama's temple in Dharamshala. 

In the field of architecture, Nepal and Uttarakhand find themselves at a pivotal juncture. As these regions embrace modernization, they risk losing touch with their architectural heritage and the influx of modern architecture into these ecologically fragile zones raises pressing questions about sustainability, cultural preservation, and local engagement. 

At HAP we do try to follow a methodology where contemporary designs can honor traditional principles while addressing modern needs. Our design (HAP and SMA) of the  Snow Leopard Conservation Center (under construction) incorporates local materials, local skills and eco-sensitive practices (passive solar energy, double glazing etc.) ensuring harmony with the ecosystem. We are using local Deodar timber, stone and mud mortar. Similarly for the just completed Fiddleheads Farm in Kumaon, we reimagined vernacular techniques for the ‘food-practitioners laboratory’ cum mountain lodge, thus making inroads for sustainable farming and eco-sensitive tourism, creating a novel innovative typology.

Architecture at a Crossroads

As the South Asian nations embrace modernity, they risk losing touch with its rich traditions. Yet, there is potential for a harmonious blend of both. The global expertise of inspiring and innovative architects can act as a catalyst for innovation while drawing inspiration from the enormous diversity of the architectural roots all over the Himalayas.

The critical review of the four starchitects works in Nepal, serve as a reminder of the subjectivity of architecture and the necessity of designing with sensitivity to the local context. By combining contemporary techniques with vernacular principles, Nepal can create a future where architecture honors its past and embraces modernity.

The question for us at HAP remains: How can Himalayan architecture evolve to reflect global aspirations while staying grounded in its cultural and environmental context? The answer lies not in imitation, but in inspiration—drawing from the wealth of local knowledge and reimagining it for a modern world.

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Happy Diwali from Himalayan Architecture and Planning!

As we celebrate the Festival of Lights, we are reminded of the beauty of creation and the joy of innovation. May this Diwali bring you and your loved ones joy, prosperity, and inspiration.

Wishing you a bright and joyful celebration!

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Turiyam: Vocational Training in harmony with nature.

On the eve of Diwali, we are happy to share a long promised update about the Vision of Turiyam. Nestled at 1,850 meters in Almora district, Turiyam is envisaged as a skill training centre, envisaged to connect with the Kumaoni earth through thoughtful design with the contours while it embodies a journey that intertwines nature, community, and introspection. The site design reflects the re-introduction of agroforestry and orchards, featuring an array of fruit and nut trees. Each zone within the Turiyam land has been designed to align with the terrain, creating threshold spaces, outdoor seating and an open-air theater nestled in the existing hillside.

The architectural approach emphasizes minimal intervention, embedding workshops, cafes, and gathering spaces into the landscape using local materials and sustainable practices. The placement of the blocks follow the natural slope, with large windows framing the stunning surroundings. Spaces like libraries and cafés ( see the sections by HAP-architect Kartikeya) encourage creativity and community, blending functionality with tranquility, fostering social interaction and perhaps quiet reflections.

Following the successful completion of the VISION plan, we took further steps into the first ecological ACTION. First, we designed, instructed and supervised stepped Gabion walls. They will protect the most eroded part of the lower land against erosion, while reinforcing the site soil’s stability. Next was tree sapling initiative in which 60 native species such as Silver Oak (Banj), Alder (Utis), Himalayan Cedar (Surai), and Juniper were carefully planted. This enriches the existing biodiversity and it provides essential habitats for wildlife. We now hope that the visionary Turiyam leadership, who have taken a time-out, will continue the ambitious and meaningful journey which will ‘give back’ to the youth of Kumaon and the local community.

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Gautam’s Home: A blend of Contemporary Design and Himalayan contextual elements:

Maurya Gautam’s home carefully combines natural stone, wood, and sleek metalwork. Despite the challenges posed by the relentless rains of the monsoon season, construction slowly and steadily progressed. While we are approaching the completion of the family home, the mountain architecture interior quality emerges.

Expansive windows bathe the interiors in natural light, while the airy attic and the pop-out room offer stunning, unobstructed views of the Trishul, Nanda Devi, and Mrigthuni mountain ranges.

One of the home’s standout features is the spiral staircase, soon to be embellished with the designed pattern of glass and timber inserts. The staircase space on all levels will welcome subtle shadow patterns as the sun moves across the blue sky and as the moon moves in the night.

The home's robust metal framework ensures a structural durability and flexibility needed in earthquake prone environments. The connect between nature and interior is turning each view into a framed living landscape. Once completed, this serene retreat will provide a peaceful haven for film maker/ camera man Maurya Gautam, his mum and his sis. Expectations are that the family will be able to move by the cold end of the year, perhaps there will be a White Christmas. . .

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Crafting the Final Touches

Soon, Prof. Kiranmaya Bhushi will be able to move into her new Food Practitioner’s Laboratory in Nathuakhan. As the last part of the rainy season graces us with its gentle presence, ‘Fiddleheads Farm’ is steadily progressing with floor finishing nearing its final chapter, with only grouting and polishing left to perfect the intricate designs.

The elegant metal railings are steadily taking shape. Primer and paint will be the final finishing touches.

The interiors already see ample natural light pouring into all the spaces, bathing them in a warm, inviting glow that enhances comfort and elegance. The thermal insulation of rockwool will ensure excellent thermal performance in the cold winters and on a hot day in May. The principal and architects worked with the craftspeople to create a harmonious blend of functionality and ample natural building material details that falls into place. We dearly wish and hope to partake in a mesmerizing Diwali or innovatively prepare Christmas dinner !

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Ground breaking news: Snow Leopard Conservation Centre

After more than two years of numerous delays and endless meetings, presentations and what not, we are thrilled to announce that SLCC construction has started ! Uttarakhand will be having the first building in the world dedicated to the conservation of the elusive and mystical Snow Leopard.

The project’s 3 buildings, carefully designed by us within the deodar-boulder landscape at an altitude of 2800 m+ is progressing beautifully. The Forest Department Facility integrating seamlessly into the natural landscape at the entrance area and the Main SLCC building's levels following the natural contours. Deeper into the forest, behind the two blue pines the foundation of the Deodar Cafe is progressing. Despite the rugged terrain, the dedicated Forest Department officials, RWD engineers, local builders and masons are working hard with us to shaping the stones and carefully letting the foundation grow into walls. Craftsmanship was being tested through creating several scale 1:1 mock-ups of the stone wall and adobe based mortar to ensure high-quality, enduring structures.

We’ll continue to keep you updated as we move toward with this ambitious and environmentally mindful project!

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From the heart of a wintry Himalayan landscape at Chatola, Kumaon, we bring an update on Gautam’s Home. Metal columns have been buttressed, the spire of the building is within reach. Stone work for the ground floor's cozy living space and decking sheet flooring are finished. Carefully designed trusses already shape the envisioned roof, while the structure eagerly anticipates an intriguing curtain wall facade—a home soon to boast breathtaking views from this Himalayan abode.

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Just after the grand MAD event, we had organized this year, a five-week-long exchange between Ar. Kartikeya (HAP) and Ar Jeenus(our sister team SMA) took place. Both Jeenus and Kartikeya were already geared up as they had given their (first ever) public talk during MAD. This swap gave both architects fresh perspectives and unique experiences.

Jeenus got to know about the use of Hematite in architecture (Fiddleheads Farm), which was new to him. In Bhimtal, working with seasoned Ar. Himanshu Lal and the small HAP-team, he got exposed to Kumaoni building techniques in real-time, and he joined in the Indian design process. This exchange for Jeenus was knowledgeful and packed with unusual experiences like encountering a jackal. Surely, calm Bhimtal was good to him!

Ar. Kartikeya arrived as a speaker at MAD in the Kathmandu Valley. His subsequent exposure as a member of the larger SMA team under the Guidance of Prof. Anne Feenstra was a roller coaster of exposure. he got to work with new materials like Gneiss as flooring material, rosewood for furniture and yak felt as seating, in Bliss Fulbari. Captivated by the sheer grandeur of Newar traditional architecture combined with partaking in some of the festivals, bustling Kathmandu felt quickly like home to him.

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The Winter Line has begun to paint the skies of Uttarakhand, signalling the arrival of the winter season. Nighttime temperatures are steadily dropping to a minimum of 6 degrees, prompting nature to prepare for the chilly months ahead. As we embrace this seasonal transition, it's crucial to consider conscious choices in our diet, savouring the most profound and nurturing forms of sustenance. This contemplation recalls the timeless concept of "Food for Thought" and Kiran’s Laboratory – Fiddleheads Farm.

Progress in Nathuakhan is moving steadily as we are completing the metal structure of the upper floor. Next will be the timber planks, window frames and thermal insulation. As the upper floor will serve as Prof. Kiran’s lodge, comfort, coziness and mountain beauty are key.

Expect more regular updates during the winter from us.

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HAP participation was a resounding Mountain Architecture success and added to the two days of MADness. The event showcased 36 architectural projects, 24 speakers and moderators, 4+1 hands on workshops and was attended by almost 300 participants.

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HAP is going on an exciting journey to attend the two day program taking place in the beautiful valley of Kathmandu. 

The event will happen on Friday 28th July, 2023 - 14:00pm onwards and Saturday 29th July, 2023- 12:00pm onwards (both Nepal Standard Time). 

The program will comprise of exhibitions, dialogues, knowledge exchange  presentations, workshops, steaming tea, and hot coffee.

This is a free event; OPEN TO ALL.

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Studio HAP in Bhimtal went through some significant changes both visually and functionally. Just before the monsoon season we upgraded the main working space.

Parth, an Interior Designer and Gaurav a local expert(both part time)  and architecture intern Prateek joined Himanshu and Kartikeya.

The garden flora with hydrangeas, dahlias, roses, hibiscus and succulents have thrived well. HAP fauna has now two kittens and their mother, enjoying our porch chairs.

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The burst of activity near the site located in the fruit belt of Mukteshwar has calmed down after the completion of the Plum, Peach, and Bayberry harvesting. But same can't be said for Gautam family Home in Chatola.

The frames for the doors and windows made with Sal wood and the stonework for the load bearing stone walls of the entrance floor are well underway. Dry Stone wall (picture on bottom right) has been used in the north east part of the site to retain the soil. Site Engineer Neeraj is working with his team to complete the heavy stone work, while Fareed and his team have completed the prefabricated metal work for upper floor.

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Before the last week of June, which is when the monsoons are predicted to reach the foothills of Kumaon, all hands are on deck to complete the metal work at the site located in Nathuakhan.

All the stone walls are up and currently Mr. Puran and his team are working to finish the RCC tie beam so that the work on the lighter part of the building can begin.  We have made plans to cover the entire site in tarpaulin sheet to make sure that the work carries on even during the full monsoon blast.

You can read more about how it started here!

https://www.tumblr.com/himalayanarchitectureandplanning/682695694343110656/the-terraced-land-that-chef-prof-kiranmayi?source=share

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NEST

Situated at 1700 m. altitude in Dwarsaw, Uttarakhand, the site of the NEST has steep slope in a forest land. We designed a compact footprint of 164 sq.m.

On the top floor, we conceptualized a loft for the young family of Harsh Lochan and Violetta. The first floor has guest rooms and a Zen space for their Japanese guests. The ground floor is directly connected to the forest and we designed it as an open family room with Y-kitchen island.