Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Architectural Retreat Featuring Glazed Roofs and Sustainable Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Authors:
Agata Biernacka, Maksymilian Jankowski
Architectural Retreat Featuring Glazed Roofs and Sustainable Cross-Laminated Timber Panels

Project in-detail

With modular units constructed from cross-laminated timber panels and expansive glazed roofs designed for optimal aurora viewing, the architectural retreat redefines sustainable living in a remote Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for flexible configurations catering to various group sizes.
02
Extensive use of cross-laminated timber enhances structural stability and sustainability.
03
Glazed roofs provide unobstructed views for optimal aurora observation.
04
Charred wooden shingles improve durability while integrating with the natural environment.
05
Self-sufficient systems for water and waste management ensure ecological efficiency.

### Concept Overview

Located in a remote Icelandic landscape, the project titled "Aurora Box" emphasizes a harmonious integration of living spaces with the surrounding natural environment, designed to enhance the experience of observing the auroras. The intent is to provide tranquil accommodations that facilitate a strong connection between inhabitants and nature, while also allowing for flexible arrangements suited to various group sizes. The modular design features individual or combined units that foster community engagement in a setting characterized by its stunning vistas.

### Modular Configuration

The architectural approach utilizes small, cube-like structures known as "boxes," which can be configured to host different numbers of occupants, ranging from a solitary unit accommodating two adults to larger arrangements for groups of up to four individuals. This versatility cultivates a sense of intimacy and communal interaction, catering to families and friends. The layout strategically ensures that each unit maximizes views of the aurora while maintaining privacy, with pathways that facilitate movement between the various boxes and shared spaces without disrupting the natural surroundings.

### Material and Sustainability Strategies

Incorporating sustainable practices, the design prominently features natural materials such as wood for the walls, enhancing both aesthetic appeal and thermal efficiency. The expansive glazed roof not only optimizes natural light but also grants unobstructed views of the night sky, ideal for aurora observation. Sustainability is further emphasized through the integration of solar panels for energy needs, geothermal heating systems, and innovative water management solutions, allowing for self-sufficiency in this remote location. The inclusion of amenities like a sauna and restaurant also serves to enhance the overall user experience, turning these dwellings into a holistic retreat while remaining deeply connected to the ecological context.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy