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Charred Wood Cladding and Steel Framework for Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Authors:
Simon Jewell, Jason Eccles, Jason Eccles
Charred Wood Cladding and Steel Framework for Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Project in-detail

Charred wood cladding and a steel framework create resilient and sustainable trekking cabins designed to blend seamlessly with Iceland's rugged landscape while providing essential accommodations for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance fire resistance while providing a visually appealing finish.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels offer superior structural stability and thermal efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design allows for optimal snow and rain runoff in Iceland's climate.
04
Modular layouts enable flexible accommodation for varying group sizes and usage.
05
A rainwater harvesting system supports sustainability by reducing water consumption.

## Project Overview
Located within Iceland's rugged landscapes, the trekking cabins project is a conceptual initiative focused on creating modular and sustainable accommodations for trekkers. This design interprets the geological and cultural identity of the region, drawing inspiration from Iceland's unique tectonic formations and its deep-rooted connection to nature. The intent is to establish a series of cabins that not only serve as functional retreats for adventurers but also respect and enhance the surrounding environment.

## Spatial Configuration
The layout emphasizes a clear organization of functional spaces, distinguishing between sleeping quarters, social areas, and utility facilities. The sleeping modules are designed to accommodate up to ten guests, prioritizing comfort and privacy. Social spaces are centrally located to foster interaction, hosting communal dining and activities, while ancillary rooms, including drying facilities and natural saunas, ensure a comprehensive user experience. An entrance and meeting area serves both as a communal gathering point and an observation deck, offering expansive views of the landscape.

## Materiality and Sustainability
The material choices reflect a commitment to sustainability and adaptation to local climatic conditions. A lightweight steel framework provides structural robustness while minimizing environmental impact. Durable concrete panels contribute thermal mass suited to varying weather conditions, and wood finishes enhance aesthetics through warmth and sustainability. Glass facades are optimized for light exposure, ensuring expansive views while maintaining insulation. Metal cladding offers practicality and low maintenance, simultaneously referencing traditional Icelandic architecture. The design also incorporates rainwater harvesting and efficient waste management systems, promoting low-energy usage and furthering the project's environmental objectives.

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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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