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Charred Wood Shingles and Plywood Form a Tranquil Retreat in Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Byung Jun Kang, Dayoon Seok, Youlim Park, 성호 조
Charred Wood Shingles and Plywood Form a Tranquil Retreat in Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

Combining charred wood shingles and plywood to minimize environmental impact, this retreat seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape while providing a serene space for relaxation and wellness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates geothermal heating systems to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for increased durability and weather resistance.
03
Features expansive glass elements for panoramic views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Designed with communal spaces to foster social interaction among occupants.
05
Integrates biophilic design principles through the incorporation of indoor plant life.

### Project Overview

Located in Iceland, the cabin design aims to create a space that fosters a profound connection between inhabitants and the surrounding natural landscape. The structure is conceived as a holistic environment, intended to support physical, mental, and spiritual rejuvenation, facilitating both individual reflection and collective interaction. The design prioritizes environmental stewardship, encouraging occupants to engage positively with their surroundings.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The cabin spans three levels, each with distinct functions that enhance user experience. The first floor serves as a communal hub, featuring a living room, kitchen, and multi-purpose areas that promote social engagement. The second floor is dedicated to personal well-being, incorporating spaces for yoga and a library to support relaxation and introspection. The third floor provides meditation and observation areas designed to immerse occupants in the tranquility of the Icelandic landscape, reinforcing their connection to nature.

### Materiality and Sustainability

Material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and aesthetic harmony. Structural elements and interior finishes predominantly utilize eco-friendly wood, specifically plywood, for its versatility and warmth. Expansive tempered glass elements are integrated to maximize natural light while ensuring durability, and gray concrete forms the foundation, merging modern aesthetics with structural integrity. Biophilic design principles are employed with the inclusion of indoor greenery, enhancing air quality and creating a soothing atmosphere. Innovative ecological systems, such as geothermal heating and natural lighting features, further reduce environmental impact while optimizing the cabin’s energy efficiency.

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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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