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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Modular Retreats in Icelandic Landscapes

Authors:
Galen Carlson, Justin Voghel, Alison Bowers, Harry Webb
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Create Modular Retreats in Icelandic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Modular cabins constructed from charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber offer a sustainable retreat, seamlessly integrating into the rugged Icelandic landscape while providing essential amenities for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular units enable flexible configurations for diverse user needs.
02
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability while blending with the landscape.
03
Steel columns elevate the cabins, minimizing land impact and frost heave risk.
04
Rainwater harvesting system ensures sustainable water supply for occupants.
05
High-efficiency glass maximizes natural light and outdoor connections.

# Analytical Report on the Architectural Design of the TREXAGON Trekking Cabins

## Project Overview
The TREXAGON project entails the development of modular trekking cabins tailored for outdoor enthusiasts, particularly in regions characterized by dramatic landscapes, such as Iceland. The design emphasizes sustainability, versatility, and ease of assembly, addressing the needs of varied user groups while integrating seamlessly into the natural environment.

## Spatial Configuration and Modularity
At the core of the design is a modular approach that employs hexagonal units, allowing for flexible configurations based on specific site conditions and user requirements. Each cabin is constructed from identical hexagonal modules that connect to create various spatial arrangements, accommodating different functions, from individual cabins to larger complexes. The elevation of these structures on steel columns minimizes land disturbance and provides a unique visual integration with the surrounding terrain.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
The project incorporates a range of durable materials that enhance functionality and support environmental harmony. The exterior features blackened wood cladding, reflecting traditional Icelandic architectural practices while providing resilience against harsh weather. A robust steel frame underpins the cabins, ensuring structural integrity. Key sustainability measures include the installation of photovoltaic solar panels for electricity generation and a rainwater harvesting system that promotes resource efficiency. Additional elements such as high-efficiency glass panels enhance natural light and connectivity to the environment.

By addressing vital systems, including a composting toilet and wood-burning stove, the design promotes efficient resource use and enhances the overall user experience in rugged settings. Configurations range from minimal single-unit designs to more complex structures suited for larger groups, ensuring adaptability to diverse outdoor settings.

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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
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