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Charred Wood Facade and Elevated Design Creating Sustainable Shelters for Trekkers in Iceland

Authors:
Roni Koski-Tuuri, Lassi Siitonen
Charred Wood Facade and Elevated Design Creating Sustainable Shelters for Trekkers in Iceland

Project in-detail

Elevated above the rugged terrain, the charred wood cabins offer a low-maintenance shelter for trekkers, integrating eco-friendly design with functional living spaces in Iceland's wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wood for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels for structural stability and efficiency.
03
Features an elevated design to minimize environmental impact and maximize views.
04
Integrates solar panels and rainwater harvesting for self-sufficient energy and water use.
05
Adopts a flexible interior layout that adapts to varying group sizes and activities.

### Project Overview

The SKJÓL cabins are strategically designed to meet the growing demand for sustainable lodging within Iceland's natural landscapes. Located in a remote area, this minimalist structure serves as a retreat for hikers, allowing them to rest and recharge while immersed in the striking scenery of the Icelandic wilderness. The design emphasizes a connection to the environment, providing a comfortable yet unobtrusive shelter.

### Materiality and Structural Strategy

The cabins implement a range of durable and environmentally considerate materials. The exterior is primarily clad in charred wood, a technique known as Shou Sugi Ban, which enhances durability and fire resistance while offering a visually appealing contrast to the surrounding landscape. The use of concrete ensures structural stability, while steel elements are incorporated for internal support. For interior finishes, plywood is selected to create warm and inviting spaces.

The architectural layout is designed for functionality and engagement with the outdoor environment. The ground floor features an outdoor fireplace and a mechanical storage area to promote resource management. Above, the first-floor living area is oriented towards large windows that frame panoramic views, incorporating a kitchen and bathroom to facilitate practical living. A loft space provides additional accommodation and benefits from natural light through strategically placed skylights, enhancing ventilation and overall comfort.

### Sustainability and User Experience

The SKJÓL cabins incorporate various eco-friendly systems, including solar panels for energy and rainwater harvesting strategies, minimizing reliance on conventional infrastructures. A thoughtfully designed natural ventilation strategy employs a stack effect through the positioning of windows and vents, promoting airflow and contributing to energy efficiency.

The interiors are flexible, allowing adjustments for varying numbers of occupants through adaptable furniture layouts. This design consideration ensures that the cabins can accommodate different user needs, promoting usability without compromising on comfort or aesthetic appeal. The project thus balances modern living standards with sustainable practices, creating a responsible lodging option for visitors exploring Iceland's unique landscapes.

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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
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