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 Expansive Views in a Circular Retreat Design

Author:
Samuel Hervault
Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Views in a Circular Retreat Design
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Combining charred wooden shingles with a circular layout, this retreat optimally captures panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape while offering a sustainable and communal space for visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Charred timber cladding enhances durability and resistance to harsh weather.
02
Circular design optimizes views and fosters social interaction.
03
Central fire pit serves as a communal gathering space.
04
Large glass windows frame the northern lights and surrounding landscape.
05
Cork flooring provides thermal comfort and sustainable material usage.

### Project Overview
Located in Iceland, the design emphasizes the integration of built structures with the surrounding natural landscape. The intention is to create a functional space that simultaneously showcases the region's unique topography and natural phenomena, such as the northern lights. The project is guided by principles of sustainability and user engagement, aiming to foster a connection between occupants and their environment.

### Spatial Organization
The layout features a circular retreat that prioritizes both communal and private interactions. A centrally located common area, anchored by a fire pit, serves as a gathering space, promoting social engagement. Surrounding this area are five private bedrooms designed for proximity while ensuring personal privacy. The configuration is adaptable, allowing flexibility in space usage based on occupancy needs. This design choice enhances the overall user experience by facilitating interactions in a comfortable setting.

### Material Selection
Thoughtful material choices reflect both sustainability and functional design. The structure utilizes reinforced concrete for stability, while charred timber (Shou Sugi Ban) for cladding not only provides durability but also a distinctive aesthetic. Large glass windows are incorporated to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views. Inside, cork flooring adds thermal benefits and comfort, while natural textiles in soft furnishings enhance the welcoming atmosphere. The materials selected emphasize the project’s commitment to harmony with the environment, aligning with local ecological practices.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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