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Bitumen Roof and Concrete Structure Embracing Nature in Iceland’s Hospitality Retreat

Author:
Sarah magdalena Hopfner-heindl
Bitumen Roof and Concrete Structure Embracing Nature in Iceland’s Hospitality Retreat

Project in-detail

The incorporation of a green roof and the use of a bitumen insulating membrane in a concrete structure creates a sustainable retreat that fosters community interaction amidst Iceland's striking landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The guesthouse is designed with a green roof that integrates local flora.
02
A system of identical walls creates a cohesive and unified spatial experience.
03
The fireplace serves as a central social area, encouraging community interaction.
04
Hot tubs and bathtubs are strategically placed for direct views of the landscape.
05
A tapered concrete ceiling supports the green roof while enhancing structural integrity.

The Embedded Icelandic Thermal Springs Guesthouse is located in Iceland, where it connects closely with the unique landscape. The design centers on integrating with the natural environment, creating a building that blends into its surroundings. As a space for accommodation and social interaction, the guesthouse encourages a communal experience while providing guests with easy access to local scenery.

Design Concept
The concept focuses on embedding the building within the site. Inspired by nearby stone boulders, the guesthouse appears as a continuation of the landscape. The walls maintain a uniform design that gives a sense of coherence throughout the space. By strategically omitting some wall sections, the layout creates common areas that invite guests to gather, with the fireplace serving as a focal point for social activities.

Materials
A notable feature is the green roof, which references Icelandic architectural traditions. This roof not only enhances the building's environmental efficiency but also helps with insulation. The roof includes a bitumen insulating membrane composed of two layers, ensuring it is resistant to roots. The use of insulation and a vapor barrier further supports energy performance throughout the structure.

Amenities and Functionality
The building includes several amenities, such as hot tubs, bathtubs, and seating nooks, which are positioned to support a smooth flow between inside and outside. These features enrich the experience for guests, allowing them to enjoy relaxation and the beauty of nature. With these elements thoughtfully placed, visitors can engage more fully with their surroundings.

The tapered concrete ceiling supports the green roof and maintains the overall integrity of the guesthouse. This design detail enriches the building’s ecological focus while adhering to practical standards of construction and use.

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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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