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Aquaponic Cabins with Panoramic Views and Straw Insulation

Author:
Dia sebastien Mallory
Aquaponic Cabins with Panoramic Views and Straw Insulation

Project in-detail

Aquaponic cabins designed with straw insulation and large glass windows provide expansive views of the Northern Lights while offering flexible accommodations for guests seeking immersive experiences in Iceland's landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Aquaponic system integrates fish farming with plant cultivation to provide sustainable food sources.
02
Central lounge offers panoramic views of the Northern Lights for communal guest experiences.
03
Straw insulation enhances energy efficiency while blending with the local environment.
04
Convertible furniture allows flexible use of living spaces to accommodate varying guest needs.
05
Transportable cabin design facilitates relocation while maintaining minimal ecological impact.

The Panoramic Shelter project is located in Iceland, an area known for its stunning landscapes and the captivating display of the Northern Lights. Designed for guests who wish to engage with this natural phenomenon, the project consists of a series of cabins arranged to maximize views of the surrounding scenery. The overall concept emphasizes a direct connection to nature, creating spaces that invite occupants to appreciate their environment.

Spatial Arrangement and Functionality

The layout of the cabins is carefully designed to serve both couples and larger groups. The use of convertible furniture allows living spaces to adapt to different needs, enabling the living room to transform into sleeping areas. This practical approach enhances the usability of the cabins, ensuring comfort and flexibility for guests.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability plays an important role in the design through the incorporation of systems such as aquaponics, which combines fish farming and plant cultivation. This method efficiently produces food while minimizing resource use. The project also integrates a rainwater recovery system and solar panels, contributing to water management and energy efficiency. These features reflect a dedication to reducing environmental impact.

Community and Interaction

A communal guest house acts as a gathering place for visitors, enhancing social connections among guests. This lounge area offers impressive views of the aurora borealis and includes a dining space. Such a design fosters interaction, allowing guests to share experiences while still providing the privacy of their individual cabins.

Equestrian Integration

An equestrian barn is also included within the design, offering space for up to ten horses. This feature not only supports outdoor activities but also connects guests to the local landscape. The presence of horses adds another layer to the experience, making it more immersive and engaging.

The cabins are primarily constructed with wood and feature straw insulation systems, chosen for their energy efficiency and ability to blend in with the natural surroundings. Each unit encourages visitors to enjoy the unique beauty of Iceland, providing a remarkable venue for witnessing the Northern Lights from a well-considered vantage point.

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

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Competition organisers

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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