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Charred Wood and Basalt Integration in Iceland's Sustainable Residential Community

Authors:
Artur Tomczyk, Michał Kocznur, Krzysztof Matuszewski
Charred Wood and Basalt Integration in Iceland's Sustainable Residential Community

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood and locally sourced basalt, the design merges with the Icelandic landscape to create sustainable residential units that foster community connection and environmental harmony.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes Shou Sugi Ban technique for charred wood, enhancing durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates locally sourced basalt, connecting the structure to the Icelandic landscape.
03
Features large glass panels to maximize natural light and views of the Northern Lights.
04
Employs earth sheltering for insulation, reducing energy reliance and environmental impact.
05
Focuses on modular design, allowing for future adaptability and expansion of living spaces.

### Overview
Located in Iceland, this architectural design embodies a deep respect for the region's dramatic landscapes while incorporating modern sustainable practices. The project aims to harmonize with its natural surroundings and reflect local traditions, creating a living environment that resonates with both residents and visitors. Its foundational concept is informed by Icelandic culture, emphasizing sustainability and a connection to the landscape.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience
The design features a series of low-profile, pyramidal structures with an undulating roofline that mimics the natural topography of Icelandic hills. Centralized common areas encourage social interaction, fostering a sense of community while individual housing units provide private retreats. Strategic use of large windows and skylights enhances the interior experience, offering captivating views of the Northern Lights from within living spaces, thus linking inhabitants to the natural world.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
Materials were selected for their alignment with the project's ecological ethos. Basalt tiles serve as a nod to the region’s geological characteristics, while burned wood (Shou Sugi Ban) enhances durability and connects the design to local timber traditions. Extensive glass installations maximize natural light and frame the surrounding landscape, contributing to energy efficiency. The use of prefabricated concrete boxes promotes rapid assembly and minimizes environmental impact, while earth-sheltering techniques improve thermal performance. The project employs passive design strategies, such as utilizing sunlight for natural heating and sourcing materials locally to reduce carbon footprints, further solidifying its commitment to sustainability.

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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

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