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Biomorphic Shelter Crafted from Local Stone and Reflective Panels for Sustainable Hiking Retreat

Authors:
Ben Prince, Sean Redmond
Biomorphic Shelter Crafted from Local Stone and Reflective Panels for Sustainable Hiking Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted with local stone and enhanced by biomorphic shapes, the shelter provides a sustainable retreat for hikers while seamlessly integrating with Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from locally sourced stone to minimize environmental impact.
02
Incorporates reflective panels to enhance visibility in harsh weather conditions.
03
Features a modular layout allowing for flexible accommodation options.
04
Utilizes IoT technology for real-time monitoring and user safety.
05
Inspired by Icelandic folklore, integrating cultural narratives into the design.

## Overview
Located in Iceland, the HudulKabin project is designed to provide a functional and sustainable refuge for hikers, integrating seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. It draws inspiration from local cultural narratives while prioritizing environmental considerations. The cabin serves as a practical shelter equipped with essential amenities, designed to respect and enhance the natural terrain.

## Architectural Form and Spatial Organization
The biomorphic form of HudulKabin reflects natural elements, effectively minimizing wind resistance and snow accumulation. A multi-module configuration allows for flexible use, catering to varying group sizes and specific activities. The central hub layout, surrounded by dedicated modules for sleeping, living, and kitchen functions, promotes ease of movement and communal interaction, ensuring that each space can operate independently or together as needed.

## Materiality and Technological Integration
The material selection emphasizes environmental sustainability while ensuring durability and functionality. Key materials include local stone for structural integrity, reflective panels for visibility during inclement weather, and lightweight composites to facilitate transportation and assembly. Additionally, advanced thermal insulation maintains a stable internal climate. Notably, the integration of Internet of Things (IoT) technology enhances user safety by providing connectivity and adaptive responses to environmental conditions, positioning the cabin as an active participant in ensuring hiker safety.

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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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