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Charred Wood Shingles and Solar Elements in a Compact Community Shelter

Authors:
Adrienne Gerrits, Tyler Reynolds
Charred Wood Shingles and Solar Elements in a Compact Community Shelter

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wood shingles and solar panels, this compact shelter offers a sustainable retreat for hikers seeking refuge in Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural performance and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that minimizes wind resistance and maximizes interior space.
04
Utilizes locally sourced stone to blend seamlessly with the natural landscape.
05
Equipped with solar panels to support energy needs off-grid, promoting environmental responsibility.

## Overview

Located in Iceland's dramatic landscape, the Shadow Hut serves as a shelter and a space for communal interaction, reflecting the region's unique topography and cultural heritage. The design integrates influences from traditional Icelandic turf houses and contemporary Scandinavian A-frame structures, establishing a connection between local building practices and the needs of modern users. It is intended as a refuge for hikers, emphasizing the relationship between nature and human experience.

### Spatial Strategy

The spatial organization of the Shadow Hut is centered on both communal and private functionality. Communal areas, such as the kitchen and dining space, are designed to promote social interaction, while sleeping quarters provide a sense of privacy. The layout encourages both individual and group engagements, fostering a shared narrative reflective of Icelandic culture. Hidden spaces and concealed pathways within the design contribute to a sense of exploration and discovery, enhancing the overall user experience.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The selection of materials is deeply rooted in the natural context of the site, chosen for their aesthetic and functional properties. Glass is utilized for its reflective quality, allowing the structure to blend into the surrounding landscape, while wood provides warmth and ties to traditional construction methods. Stone is used both as a foundation and as an aesthetic element, grounding the hut within its geological setting. The incorporation of solar panels demonstrates a commitment to sustainability, enabling self-sufficiency through energy harnessing. This emphasis on renewable resources is complemented by a modular design that allows for flexible adaptation to various remote locations, exemplifying a practical approach to environmental challenges.

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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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