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Charred Wooden Shingles and Composite Cladding Define a Sustainable Retreat in the Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Ryan Reid, James Faulds
Charred Wooden Shingles and Composite Cladding Define a Sustainable Retreat in the Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and composite cladding, the retreat integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape while providing a functional space for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic integration.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Incorporates an innovative water management system tailored to Iceland's climate.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels, promoting sustainability and structural efficiency.
05
Includes a boot room designed specifically for outdoor activity enthusiasts.

## Overview

The Tricking Cabin is situated in Iceland and designed to offer a retreat that harmonizes with its natural surroundings. The project emphasizes innovative design principles and an acute awareness of local geographic conditions. By balancing form and function, the structure fosters a dialogue between indoor and outdoor spaces, encouraging visitor engagement with the landscape.

## Spatial Arrangement and User Connectivity

The design features a series of interconnected volumes, each oriented to provide unique views of the exterior topography. The arrangement allows for multifunctionality and flexibility in use, enhancing the spatial experience. Large frames reinforce this connection by showcasing the surrounding vistas, promoting exploration and interaction with the outdoor environment. Interior spaces prioritize comfort and accessibility, with a boot room catering to outdoor enthusiasts and living areas designed to maximize natural light and views of the mountains.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choice plays a vital role in ensuring structural integrity while maintaining aesthetic coherence with the landscape. The use of a timber panel frame contributes to sustainability and provides strength, while composite cladding and a concrete base enhance durability against local weather conditions. The incorporation of glass elements fosters a relationship between the cabin’s interior and the natural setting. Additionally, an innovative water management system is integrated into the design, addressing environmental needs and reinforcing the project’s commitment to sustainability by utilizing effective rainwater collection techniques. Emphasizing local craftsmanship, the project incorporates locally sourced materials, thereby supporting the regional economy and enhancing its contextual relevance.

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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

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