MAP’s cloud catcher emerges from nepal hillside resort as two rock-like volumes

the interior spaces are organized vertically across the volumes, connected by a central circulation spine aligned with the mountain range.

MAP edited by ravail khan November 3, 2023 3 min

map inserts cloud catcher on the hillside for kavya resort & spa

On the hillside of Nagarkot, Nepal, Cloud Catcher by MAP emerges as two rock-like volumes within the confines of Kavya Resort and Spa. Inspired by local village houses built on steep terrains, the hotel building maintains a minimal footprint, the peaks strategically positioned to capture the views of the Himalayas and the valley below. The interior spaces are organized vertically across the two volumes, connected by a central circulation spine aligned with the mountain range. Their separation marked by the spine creates a vivid passage to allow the integration of nature and ventilation, as clouds and fog permeate the building intermittently.

nature and ventilation integrate the structure

The main level accommodates welcoming areas, including attic-like spaces for a cloud café and library. The lower levels house dining rooms situated just above the main kitchen, from which cascading steps connect the alfresco area and then the pool terrace. Drawing inspiration from local geology, MAP’s architectural concept, led by Kiran Mathema aims to offer diverse spatial experiences, ranging from crevasse-like circulation hallways to cave-like gathering rooms and promontory-like verandas overlooking the mountain range.

Shaped to respond to the local climate, seismic forces, and the views, every side of the building looks different. The side facades feature reinforced concrete shear walls with punctures in the form of dormers, allowing southern sunlight to filter through. The entry facade conceals ‘back of house’ functions, resembling a cluster of village houses with smaller fenestrations. In contrast, the back facade facing the valley transforms its appearance into a telescopic form, projecting towards the views with an emphasis on transparency.

map sculpts the cloud catcher of a hillside resort in two rock like volumes 12 — the main level hosts welcoming areas with attached spaces for the café and library

map sculpts the cloud catcher of a hillside resort in two rock like volumes 10 — perched up on a natural bluff, Cloud Catcher glows like lantern as the sun sets behind the mountains

map sculpts the cloud catcher of a hillside resort in two rock like volumes 8 — promontory-like verandas provide a clear view of the mountains and valley below

project info:

name: Cloud Catcher

location: Nagarkot, Nepal
architecture: MAP

lead architect: Kiran Mathema

architecture team: Ajaya Mathema, Dipesh Shrestha, Prashanta Bahadur Singh, Parmila Maharjan, Sagar Chitrakar, Sarmilan Maharjan, Kamal Maharjan, Anish Dangol, Ashok Shrestha, Prana Shrestha, Siddhartha Gautam, Niranjan Bharati, Santosh Pradhan, Chandra Prajapati

client: Hitesh Golchha, Kavya Resort and Spa

structure: Orphius Dangol

electrical: Ram Shah (G.Tect)

plumbing and sanitary: Umesh Agrawal (Stupa Design Pvt.Ltd.)

kitchen consultant: Vinod Sagtani (The Sagtani Exim Pvt Ltd)

HVAC consultant: Airtect Pvt. Ltd.

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