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Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Encompassing Contemporary Retreat Spaces

Author:
Laura D'andrada de almeida
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Encompassing Contemporary Retreat Spaces

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber define a contemporary retreat designed to immerse guests in Iceland’s serene landscape, blending wellness amenities with striking environmental considerations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles provide both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Cross-laminated timber construction enhances structural stability and sustainability.
03
Movable guest modules allow for adaptable spatial arrangements.
04
Designed to maximize views of the Northern Lights from every room.
05
Integrated wellness facilities promote relaxation in alignment with natural surroundings.

**Overview and Context**
Located in Reykjavík, Iceland, the design initiative emphasizes integration with the surrounding natural landscape while addressing the social dynamics of space. With a focus on fostering both private retreat and communal interaction, the project seeks to create an environment where visitors can experience the beauty of the Northern Lights and local ecology.

**Spatial Strategy and Design Layout**
The layout consists of distinct zones tailored to various user experiences. A dedicated private area offers intimate guest modules equipped with movable elements for personalized comfort. In contrast, communal spaces are designed to facilitate social engagement, featuring ample seating that connects guests to the outdoors. Additional amenities include a serene pond and sauna, enhancing wellness and promoting relaxation. The flexible design allows for the adaptability of guest accommodations to the site's topography while optimizing visibility of the landscape.

**Materiality and Sustainability**
Sustainability is at the forefront of the material choices, with a focus on energy efficiency and minimal ecological impact. Transparent polycarbonate sheets allow natural light to permeate spaces, while cross-laminated timber (CLT) supports structural integrity and thermal performance suited to the local climate. Timber decking provides a warm transition between indoor and outdoor environments, guiding users through the overall experience while reinforcing a connection to nature.

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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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