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Carbon Fiber Lodging Units Embracing Icelandic Landscapes with Panoramic Glass and Sustainable Design

Authors:
Sirena Varma, Haydar Baydoun, Rami Saab, Omar Bacho
Carbon Fiber Lodging Units Embracing Icelandic Landscapes with Panoramic Glass and Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Employing carbon fiber and expansive glass panels, the design integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, offering modular lodging that promotes sustainability and user adaptability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes carbon fiber for structural strength while minimizing weight.
02
Features large, panoramic glass panels for unobstructed landscape views.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
04
Offers modular units that can be customized for various user needs.
05
Designed with smart technology for remote control of environmental settings.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the LANDSHIP project integrates contemporary outdoor lodging concepts with a design inspired by Viking longships. The intent is to create a sustainable dwelling that harmonizes with the unique Icelandic landscape and offers adaptable living solutions for users. This architectural approach focuses on modularity, sustainability, and user engagement, facilitating immersive experiences in nature.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The LANDSHIP is characterized by its elongated modular segments, which can be configured to accommodate various user needs. Each unit features a flexible interior with foldable furniture and social spaces, promoting efficient use of space while enhancing user interaction. The design includes a central keel that provides stability and distributes essential services, while the rib structure enhances durability and houses electrical and heating systems. Expansive glazing allows for panoramic views and natural light, facilitating a strong connection to the surrounding environment.

### Sustainable Material Selection

The materials chosen for LANDSHIP reflect its commitment to sustainability and functionality. Carbon fiber is utilized for its lightweight and energy-efficient properties, while high-performance insulation ensures climate control for occupant comfort. The use of large glass panels enhances the aesthetic by providing unobstructed views, and wood finishes contribute warmth to the interiors. Additionally, integrated LED lighting improves energy efficiency, and a rainwater management system is designed to significantly reduce water wastage. Collectively, these design choices underline the project's focus on ecological responsibility while maintaining structural integrity and aesthetic appeal.

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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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