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Asymmetrical Shelter Crafted From Kebony Wood With Sustainable Water Collection Systems

Authors:
Mariana Cassilha Stival, Luisa da Costa de Moraes, Maria Clara Iura Schafaschek, Ingrid Schmaedecke
Asymmetrical Shelter Crafted From Kebony Wood With Sustainable Water Collection Systems

Project in-detail

Crafted from Kebony wood and designed with an asymmetrical roof to withstand Iceland's harsh climate, the cabin offers an eco-friendly retreat that seamlessly integrates water collection systems with spaces for both communal interaction and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin's asymmetrical roof design reduces snow load and enhances wind resistance.
02
Utilizes Kebony wood for sustainability and durability in harsh climates.
03
Incorporates a previously unexplored rainwater collection system with UV filtration.
04
Features cross-ventilation strategies that optimize indoor air quality.
05
Offers dedicated communal spaces that encourage social interaction among guests.
The project at hand is an innovative architectural design known as the "Cabin for Iceland," which represents a thoughtful response to the unique challenges presented by Iceland's rugged landscape and demanding climate. This cabin serves a dual purpose, acting as both a retreat for trekkers and a community hub for shared experiences. The architecture is characterized by a clear understanding of its surroundings, providing a space that balances individual reflection with communal engagement.

The cabin features a distinctive wedge-shaped roof that serves not only an aesthetic purpose but also a practical one. This design approach allows for efficient snow management, reducing the structural load during winter months while effectively directing rainwater during the wetter seasons. The inclined roof reflects the natural topography of the area, ensuring the cabin harmonizes with the landscape rather than dominating it.

Material selection is a cornerstone of the project. The use of Kebony wood, treated to enhance its durability, provides a sustainable solution that maintains the warmth of the interior while standing resilient against the elements. This choice reflects a commitment to eco-friendly architecture, a principle that guides the overall design. The interior is further complemented by natural insulation derived from sheep wool, promoting efficient temperature regulation and comfort in the fluctuating Icelandic climate.

A polished aluminum outer shell not only contributes to the modern aesthetic of the cabin but also serves as a durable barrier against harsh weather. This combination of materials illustrates a deliberate selection process aimed at maximizing sustainability while ensuring the cabin remains functional and attractive. The implementation of a hydraulic system for rainwater collection highlights a significant design detail, as it allows for self-sufficiency in water usage. Coupled with a UV light filtration system, this ensures that the water collected is safe for consumption.

Inside, the cabin fosters an intimate atmosphere with a layout designed to facilitate social interaction while ensuring personal spaces remain accessible. Areas are cleverly segmented, allowing for individual storage without compromising the communal spirit that the design aims to promote. Cross-ventilation strategies are integrated into the architecture to enhance air circulation, essential for maintaining a comfortable living environment, particularly in an enclosed space.

The cabin's adaptability to extreme weather conditions is nested within its architectural framework. The inclusion of wind turbines and solar panels signifies a forward-thinking approach to energy consumption, ensuring that the structure not only meets its occupants' needs but does so in an environmentally responsible manner. This emphasis on sustainability reinforces the project's relevance in contemporary architectural discourse, pushing forward ideas about how buildings can coexist with their environments.

The "Cabin for Iceland" stands as an exemplary model of modern architecture that respects traditional influences while pushing towards an eco-conscious future. The thoughtful design choices made throughout the project reflect an understanding of both function and aesthetics, creating a space that is inviting and practical. By merging innovative environmental strategies with a design that emphasizes community and individual needs, the cabin is a testament to the potential of architecture to enhance human experience in isolated and extreme settings.

For those interested in delving deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that shaped this project, I encourage you to explore the detailed presentation. Engaging with these facets will provide a comprehensive understanding of the design's intent and the careful considerations that have gone into creating this unique structure.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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