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Charred Timber Cladding and Basalt Columns in a Sustainable Community Retreat

Authors:
Massimo Munari, Damiano Polo
Charred Timber Cladding and Basalt Columns in a Sustainable Community Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred timber cladding that echoes the region's basalt formations, the retreat integrates sustainability and local materials to provide a serene community space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wood to enhance weather resistance.
02
Incorporates movable cabins to adapt to varying guest needs.
03
Designed to provide panoramic views of the Northern Lights.
04
Features sustainable rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the architecture.
05
Emphasizes energy efficiency with extensive natural insulation techniques.

### Project Overview
The Studlaberg Basalt Columns project is located in Iceland, designed to integrate the built environment with the region's striking geological features, particularly the basalt columns shaped by volcanic activity. The primary structure combines communal areas with guest accommodations, reflecting the natural formations prevalent in the landscape. This design intends to create a visual and functional connection between occupants and the surrounding environment.

### Spatial Arrangement and Functionality
The architectural layout emphasizes a fluid experience, facilitating movement between distinct areas within the building. Common areas are designed for social interaction, featuring communal dining and relaxation zones to foster community engagement. Guest accommodations prioritize comfort, incorporating large windows that frame views of the landscape, including opportunities to observe the Northern Lights. Amenities such as bathrooms, showers, and a sauna have been incorporated to enhance visitor comfort, while a drying room addresses the practical needs of guests exploring the natural surroundings. Detailed floor plans illustrate a careful balance between encouraging interaction and maintaining privacy.

### Materiality
The material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and environmental harmony. Charred wood cladding provides durability and evokes traditional Icelandic building techniques, while interior wood panels contribute to a warm atmosphere. Energy-efficient materials, including advanced insulation and solar panels, support the project's sustainability goals. Large glass elements are featured to maximize natural light and highlight the scenic views. Additional structures utilize sandwich panels to improve energy conservation. The integration of rainwater harvesting systems exemplifies modern resource management practices, further aligning with the project's environmental intentions.

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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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