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Blending Panoramic Views With Rainwater Collection In A Colorful Aluminum-Framed Shelter

Authors:
Mark Nixon, Viliina Koivisto
Blending Panoramic Views With Rainwater Collection In A Colorful Aluminum-Framed Shelter

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage, the vibrant, aluminum-framed cabin integrates rainwater collection and panoramic views, providing trekkers a functional and immersive retreat in the Icelandic wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin utilizes a lightweight aluminum frame to enhance portability and stability in rugged terrains.
02
Rainwater collection channels are integrated into the design to support sustainability and resource efficiency.
03
The vibrant color palette is inspired by traditional Icelandic knitting patterns, connecting culture with contemporary aesthetics.
04
Modular construction techniques allow for efficient assembly in remote locations, accommodating various environmental conditions.
05
Interior spaces are strategically designed to maximize comfort for trekkers while maintaining a strong visual connection to the natural surroundings.
The Rose Cabin is an architectural project that seamlessly merges contemporary design with traditional Icelandic cultural elements, reflecting a deep respect for the environment and local heritage. This cabin serves as a functional shelter for trekkers, providing a refuge in the breathtaking landscapes of Iceland. Its design embodies both practicality and aesthetic appeal, focusing on the needs of users while promoting a connection to the surrounding nature.

The architecture of the Rose Cabin is characterized by its unique star-shaped structure, which not only creates a visually engaging silhouette but also enhances the spatial experience within. The configuration allows for panoramic views of the Icelandic wilderness, inviting occupants to engage with the stunning scenery outside. This design approach emphasizes the importance of location, integrating the architecture with its environment by encouraging an immersive experience that celebrates the natural beauty of Iceland.

Functionally, the Rose Cabin is thoughtfully equipped to cater to the needs of outdoor enthusiasts. The interior layout is designed for efficiency, featuring distinct areas for sleeping, storage, and practical elements such as rainwater collection. The sleeping quarters are arranged to maximize comfort while ensuring adequate privacy, facilitating restful experiences after a day of trekking. The incorporation of a water storage system contributes to sustainability by allowing users to collect and filter rainwater, addressing practical needs in a remote setting while minimizing the environmental impact.

Materiality is another essential aspect of the Rose Cabin’s design. The use of aluminum composites for the structural framework ensures a lightweight yet stable construction, vital for enduring the variable weather conditions in Iceland. This choice reflects a contemporary understanding of material science, focusing on durability and sustainability without compromising on aesthetics. Glass features are strategically placed to harness natural light, fostering a warm and inviting atmosphere within the cabin while forging a connection between the interiors and the exterior landscape.

In terms of design, the Rose Cabin escapes conventional forms by embracing the Icelandic knitting tradition, particularly the symbolic rose pattern that is woven into the cultural fabric of the country. This pattern serves not only a decorative purpose but also strengthens the narrative of craft and community, echoing the rich history of Icelandic textiles. The vibrant colors chosen for the cabin draw inspiration from the natural surroundings, allowing the structure to resonate with the hues of the Icelandic terrain and invoking a sense of place that speaks to both local identity and the transient experience of visitors.

Unique within its context, the project accommodates modular construction techniques, making the Rose Cabin adaptable to various terrains. Such versatility is beneficial in a landscape where accessibility can be a challenge. The adaptable design allows for efficient assembly, addressing practical constraints while ensuring the cabin's permanence in a temporary setting. This approach underscores a broader trend in architecture where flexibility and responsiveness to site conditions are becoming increasingly vital.

The Rose Cabin stands as a noteworthy example of how architecture can serve multiple functions—offering shelter, celebrating local culture, and promoting sustainable practices. It invites exploration and ignites curiosity about how built environments can enrich human experiences while being attuned to the natural world. For those interested in deeper insights into this architectural project, reviewing the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas will enhance understanding of its thoughtful execution and overarching themes. The Rose Cabin not only provides respite in the Icelandic wilderness but also encapsulates a narrative that intertwines modernity with tradition in an ever-evolving architectural landscape.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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