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Charred Wood Cladding and Hempcrete Integration in A Nature-Focused Retreat

Author:
Tassiana Clara Michaella Laurre
Charred Wood Cladding and Hempcrete Integration in A Nature-Focused Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wood cladding and hempcrete insulation, the retreat integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape while providing essential amenities for outdoor recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced charred wood for exterior cladding, enhancing durability and aesthetic integration with the environment.
02
Incorporates hempcrete insulation for improved energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural stability in harsh weather conditions.
04
Includes large panoramic windows to create a seamless connection with the surrounding landscape.
05
Provides a shared communal space to foster interaction among visitors after outdoor activities.

## Project Overview
Mývatnshöfð is situated near Lake Mývatn, northeast of the Viti crater in Iceland. The design focuses on creating a functional retreat that integrates with the rugged landscape while reflecting the local architectural heritage. By responding to the area's natural topography, the project aims to achieve a balance of form and utility.

## Spatial Strategy and Building Form
The layout consists of two connected structures, with one serving as a distinctive landmark that harmonizes with the surrounding mountains. The gentle sloping roofs are engineered to withstand the region's extreme weather while aligning with the site's contours. This interaction not only shelters the buildings but also enhances visitor experience by immersing them in the natural environment.

### Materials and Sustainability
Mývatnshöfð employs a range of locally sourced materials to reinforce its commitment to sustainability. The roofs utilize reinforced concrete and volcanic dust, while charred birch wood forms the exterior cladding. Insulation is achieved through hempcrete, sheep wool, and cellulose, contributing to the building's energy efficiency following passive house principles. An innovative underground septic system facilitates efficient water filtration using melted snow and rainwater, minimizing ecological impact.

## Interior Design and User Experience
The interior layout accommodates various functions, including a sauna, changing rooms, and communal areas, all designed to enhance social interaction. The changing rooms feature ample storage for outdoor gear, while the sauna is strategically placed with large windows to maintain a connection with the landscape. The use of natural wood finishes throughout the interiors complements the exterior, fostering a warm atmosphere that resonates with the natural surroundings and supports visitor comfort.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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