Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Basalt and Accoya Form a Sustainable Retreat in Iceland's Natural Landscape

Author:
Miguel Angel Martinez Flores
Basalt and Accoya Form a Sustainable Retreat in Iceland's Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced basalt and Accoya wood, this retreat harmonizes with Iceland's rugged landscape while providing essential facilities for ski enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced Accoya wood, enhancing durability and environmental sustainability.
02
Incorporates extensive use of basalt tile for flooring and countertops, providing resilience.
03
Designed with a biophilic approach, maximizing natural light and outdoor views through large windows.
04
Utilizes geothermal energy for heating, aligning with sustainable practices in harsh climates.
05
Features a multifunctional layout that promotes community interaction and user accessibility.

## Overview
Fallen Star is located in the Mývatn region of Iceland, positioned at the base of a ski resort. The design prioritizes the creation of a tranquil retreat that emphasizes relaxation, indoor air quality, and the use of environmentally friendly materials. The architectural concept evokes the image of an outstretched hand, with distinct segments representing diverse vantage points and experiences, encouraging guests to engage with the surrounding landscape.

### Spatial Organization
The building encompasses 3,834 square feet (357 square meters) and is strategically arranged into functional zones that foster ease of movement and accessibility. Key spaces include ski storage units (563 sq. ft.), unisex changing rooms (288 sq. ft.), a mechanical room (97 sq. ft.), restrooms (male: 210 sq. ft., female: 252 sq. ft.), an indoor gathering area (1,095 sq. ft.), an outdoor gathering area (204 sq. ft.), and a snow plow storage area (1,011 sq. ft.). The layout is designed to facilitate social interaction while providing dedicated areas for relaxation and activity.

### Material and Energy Considerations
The materials selected for both the exterior and interior reflect a commitment to sustainability and local sourcing. The exterior features durable zinc and Accoya® wood, which is FSC-certified and resistant to harsh climatic conditions. Interior finishes include basalt tile for flooring, Shikkui plaster for surfaces, and sheep wool insulation, offering eco-friendly thermal and sound absorption properties. The building incorporates renewable energy systems, including geothermal heating and solar panels, to minimize its ecological footprint. Biophilic design elements, such as large windows, enhance the connection to the outdoor environment while ensuring ample natural light within the space. Custom architectural features, including varying ceiling heights and tailored color schemes, contribute to the overall ambiance and functionality of the project.

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