# Aluminum Cladded Mountain Refuge EX Creates the Pinwheel Shelter with Prefabricatef CLT Panels By Amy Duong | Published 2024-03-03 | Art & Design Source: Trend Hunter, https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pinwheel-shelter References: [dezeen](https://www.dezeen.com/2024/03/02/pinwheel-shelter-italian-alps-ex/) & [studioex.space](https://studioex.space/)  Architecture studio EX creates the Pinwheel Shelter mountain refuge located in Italy using prefabricated [CLT](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/clt-house) paneling and aluminum cladding as the main structure. It is 1,850 meters above sea level and was built with the values of reversibility and lightness in focus. The structure has a pinwheel shape that is formed by the folded wooden and aluminum shells, hence the namesake. This is created in memory of Stefano Berrone, who was an alpinist who lost his life while speedriding. Founder of EX, Michele Versaci speaks to [Dezeen](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/perfect-day-house) about the design's goals, stating "Our aim has been to create a structure that is fully reversible and minimally invasive. We drew inspiration from lightweight structures such as alpine tents. This dry system can be assembled in just four days and is easily disassembled." Image Credit: Tomaso Clavarino ## Trend Insights (Trend Hunter) - Score: 5.2/10 - Popularity: 75% | Activity: 60% | Freshness: 22% - Audience gender: 50% men, 50% women - Primary generations: Gen Z, Millennial, Gen X - Top markets: North America, South America, Europe, Asia, Africa ## Categories [Trend Hunter](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends) > [Art & Design](https://www.trendhunter.com/artdesign) ## Key Themes ### Key Themes Behind This Trend - **Prefabricated-clt-paneling:** Leveraging prefabricated CLT paneling offers faster and more efficient construction methods for modern architectural designs. - **Aluminum-cladding-innovation:** Integrating aluminum cladding presents opportunities for enhanced structural strength and aesthetic appeal in construction projects. - **Reversible-lightweight-structures:** Exploring reversible lightweight structures opens up possibilities for adaptable and sustainable architectural solutions. ### Where This Applies - **Architecture-and-design:** The architecture and design industry can harness the potential of prefabricated CLT paneling to revolutionize building practices. - **Construction-and-engineering:** There is room for disruptive innovation in the construction and engineering sector through advancements in aluminum cladding technology. - **Sustainable-construction:** Sustainable construction industries can embrace the concept of reversible lightweight structures to promote eco-friendly building practices. ## Related on Trend Hunter - [Alpine Valley-Cliff Cabins](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/bivacco-brdy.md) - [Timber Alpine Shelters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/selfsufficient-bivouac.md) - [Reflective Mountain-Based Shelters](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/shelter-santerpass.md) - [Off-Grid Mountain Shelter Designs](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/genius-show.md) - [Glossy Panelled Pentagonal Buildings](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/pinwheel.md) - [Intimate High-Altitude Cottages](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/altihut.md) - [Speculative Shelter Builds](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/asympta.md) - [Single-Clad Alps Viewing Tower](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/top-of-alpbachtal.md) - [Elevated Mountain Retreats](https://www.trendhunter.com/trends/la-cadree-perche.md)