Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Charred Wooden Shingles and Black Sheet Facade Define a Warm Retreat in Iceland's Rugged Landscape

Author:
Zack Statham
Charred Wooden Shingles and Black Sheet Facade Define a Warm Retreat in Iceland's Rugged Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and a black sheet facade, the retreat integrates seamlessly with Iceland's rugged landscape, offering a warm haven for relaxation and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability against harsh weather conditions.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to improve structural performance and insulation.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that harmonizes with the surrounding Icelandic topography.
04
Strategically oriented large windows frame views of the landscape while maintaining privacy.
05
Designed with a central fireplace as a focal point for social gatherings and warmth.

### Project Overview
Dunfaxi is an architectural retreat situated in Iceland, designed to respond to the region's harsh environmental conditions while providing a warm and inviting space for its inhabitants. The intent of the design is to create a robust shelter that harmonizes with the rugged landscape, drawing upon traditional Icelandic culture to inform its aesthetic and functional characteristics.

### Architectural Form and Spatial Configuration
The retreat features an asymmetric design composed of interconnected sections that echo the contours of the surrounding natural landscape. This architectural form not only reflects human adaptability but also establishes a visual coherence with Iceland’s peaks and valleys. The layout emphasizes distinct spatial experiences, with designated areas for relaxation, social interaction, and contemplation of the outdoors. Each space is oriented to maximize scenic views while maintaining privacy and comfort for occupants.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A key aspect of the design is the careful selection of materials that prioritize durability and thermal efficiency, essential for Iceland’s variable climate. The exterior incorporates black-colored sheet materials to facilitate snow shedding and ensure resilience against the elements, complemented by a weatherproof membrane for moisture resistance. Locally sourced timber is utilized in the framing for sustainability, while the interior features MDF to create a warm atmosphere. The building integrates effective insulation and energy-efficient systems, minimizing its environmental impact while withstanding extreme weather conditions.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy