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Aluminum Panels and Modular Construction Defining Sustainable Cabins in the Icelandic Wilderness

Author:
Peter Williams
Aluminum Panels and Modular Construction Defining Sustainable Cabins in the Icelandic Wilderness

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular system composed of durable aluminum panels, these sustainable cabins provide essential refuge for trekkers in the remote Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for rapid assembly in remote locations.
02
Aluminum panels enhance durability against harsh weather conditions.
03
Hybrid energy system integrates solar panels and wind turbines.
04
Interior layout maximizes space flexibility with multifunctional areas.
05
Beacon tower functions as a navigational aid and safety feature.

## Overview

Located in the Icelandic wilderness, the Beacon is designed to serve as a refuge for trekkers within the region's stark landscapes. With a focus on functionality and sustainability, the structure aims to provide a safe and comfortable environment for visitors engaging in outdoor adventures, particularly in remote areas where accessibility is challenging. The design incorporates modular elements to facilitate efficient transport and assembly, addressing the practicalities of construction in such locations.

### User-Centric Design

The interior spaces are tailored to meet the needs of trekkers, featuring sleeping areas, social interaction zones, and necessary amenities crucial for extended stays in wilderness settings. The common area encourages community engagement among guests, providing an opportunity for connection during their excursions. Flexibility is further emphasized through multifunctional spaces that include pull-down bunks and an extendable table, enhancing usability in various scenarios.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The design utilizes a range of materials chosen for both durability and functionality. Aluminum panels form the façade, offering lightweight protection against the harsh environmental elements. Polyurethane insulation ensures thermal resistance, maintaining comfort in extreme temperatures, while plywood veneer on interior surfaces adds warmth. Incorporating glass in operable windows maximizes natural light and offers panoramic views of the surroundings.

In pursuit of sustainability, the Beacon features a hybrid energy system equipped with solar panels and wind turbines optimized for the local climate, providing a reliable energy source. Additionally, a water collection and filtration system contribute to its self-sufficient infrastructure, further emphasizing the project’s ecological considerations. The distinctive red exterior serves both an aesthetic function and as a safety feature, enhancing visibility during adverse weather conditions.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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