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 Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Community Spaces Near Mývatn

Author:
Lauren Oates
Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels Define Sustainable Community Spaces Near Mývatn

Project in-detail

Charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels form the foundation of a collection of communal spaces that harmonize with the stunning landscape of Lake Mývatn, offering visitors a modern interpretation of traditional Icelandic living.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred wooden shingles enhance durability and integrate with the rugged Icelandic landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels reduce construction waste and improve energy efficiency.
03
The bent A-frame design optimizes natural light and views of Lake Mývatn.
04
The site layout is influenced by the Vegvisir symbol, promoting wayfinding and connectivity.
05
Interior spaces incorporate lofted beds to maximize functionality in compact areas.

## Project Overview

The recreation of the Icelandic vernacular home is located near Lake Mývatn and comprises three primary structures: a lodge, a main caretaker's house, and a set of tiny cabins. The intent is to reinterpret traditional Icelandic residential forms while integrating modern living requirements. The design aims to reflect local culture and history, creating functional spaces that harmonize with the surrounding landscape.

## Conceptual Framework

The design draws inspiration from traditional narrow house forms with gable roofs, prevalent in rural Iceland. Each structure evolves from this vernacular architecture to meet specific programmatic needs while maintaining an aesthetic that honors Icelandic roots. A significant element in the design is the Vegvisir, a symbol representing guidance, which influences both the lodge's form and the arrangement of the surrounding cabins. This integration allows for optimal views of the natural surroundings while preserving the integrity of traditional architectural forms.

### Spatial Integration

The site plan features a strategic triangular configuration that positions the lodge as a communal focal point for visitors. This orientation not only enhances the visual experience of the site but also respects the natural contours of the land. Key viewpoints include expansive views of Lake Mývatn and the surrounding volcanic rock formations, fostering a strong connection between the built environment and its natural context. The design prioritizes interaction with the landscape, ensuring that the communal spaces encourage engagement with the vistas and natural features of the area.

### Material Selection

Attention to materiality underscores the project's commitment to sustainability and local craftsmanship. Timber is used for structural framing and interior finishes, contributing warmth and reflecting Icelandic building traditions. Metal cladding on the lodge exterior enhances durability while echoing the rugged environment. Extensive glazing is incorporated to maximize natural light and visually connect indoor spaces with the outdoors, supporting a cohesive living experience that aligns with the site’s natural beauty.

### Building Designs

The lodge functions as a versatile community hub, featuring flexible lounge areas and dining facilities equipped with a restaurant kitchen. It also includes wellness spaces such as a sauna and changing rooms, aligning with Icelandic traditions surrounding health and relaxation. The main house is positioned at a height to oversee the lodge and cabins, designed with an open-plan living space that promotes social interactions, coupled with innovative private bedroom configurations. The tiny cabins cater to small groups, optimizing spatial efficiency with lofted bedrooms and shared living spaces that frame views of the night sky, enhancing the guest experience within this unique landscape.

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
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