Tie Up with Bands

HONOURABLE MENTION of Himalayan Thermal Bath

+ HONOURABLE MENTION

Himalayan Thermal Bath

Tie Up with Bands

Team

Name: Dian + Yu

Nationality: Chinese

This project aims to address Langtang’s vulnerabilities in terms of its industrial model, seismic activity, and neglected cultural heritage while transforming Gosaikunda into a thriving destination. Thermal baths being its pilot component, a protective ‘band’ modular system that is multifunctional, transformable, resilient, and embraces vernacular design is proposed.

Rooted in local seismic masonry and band structure, a super-stable ‘rock landscape’ will be 3D-printed by indigenous stone and clay-mixed mortar, featuring stone bases and variable-height pillars at each corner. Wooden bands are attached vertically, equipped with cross dampers, and lastly installed with EFTE membranes for insulation. These enclosures will serve various purposes including accommodations, local food stalls, observation points and more, fostering culture fusions among local people, trekkers, pilgrims, and birdwatchers, while become part of the scenery as well.

Within the system, the modules will be strategically and humbly positioned throughout the region and adaptable to changing seasons and needs, transitioning from pools and platforms to pavilions and houses. These versatile bubbles, tied up in bands, will eventually generate sustainable economic opportunities for local families. ‘Stabilization’ here encompasses various dimensions, spatially and temporally, naturally and socio-economically.

Jury Comments

“The project recognizes local tradition in a contemporary way. Its scale and modularity responds to the complexity of the context.”