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Charred Wood Cladding and Modular Design for Compact Eco-Friendly Living

Author:
Deanna Ament
Charred Wood Cladding and Modular Design for Compact Eco-Friendly Living

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood cladding and a modular layout, the dwelling offers adaptable eco-friendly living that harmonizes with the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for increased durability and weather resistance.
02
Features a modular layout that allows for flexible spatial configurations.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system to enhance resource efficiency.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and insulation.
05
Designed with large windows to maximize natural light and connectivity to the landscape.

### Project Overview

Located in Iceland’s diverse terrains, the Studio Hut represents a contemporary architectural endeavor that draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic forms. Designed to harmonize with the surrounding landscape, it features a modular structure defined by sharp angles and clean lines, promoting effective interaction with its environment while accommodating various functions.

### Spatial Strategy and Flexibility

The Studio Hut is developed as a versatile living space that adapts to the shifting Icelandic climate and user needs. The modular construction enables quick assembly and relocation, making it suitable for purposes ranging from artistic retreats to communal living. Thoughtfully integrated large windows enhance visual connectivity with the landscapes and ensure natural light circulates throughout the interior. The design prioritizes energy efficiency, with strategic orientations that promote natural ventilation and optimize solar gain.

### Material Selection

Material choices for the Studio Hut reflect both aesthetic and functional considerations, with an emphasis on durability and sustainability. The use of lightweight aluminum roofing offers weather resistance, while exterior wood cladding ensures a natural appearance that blends with the surroundings. Timber substructures provide structural integrity and exceptional thermal insulation, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. Incorporated sustainable elements, such as a rainwater collection system and solar panels, enhance the hut's self-sufficiency, reinforcing its commitment to ecological responsibility.

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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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