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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Sustainability in Flexible Modular Housing

Authors:
Jack (trung truc) Huynh, Kenneth Chen, Kathryn Larkin
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Sustainability in Flexible Modular Housing

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber panels, this modular housing solution integrates geothermal sustainability to provide adaptable accommodation in Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to optimize structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a flexible modular design allowing for quick reconfiguration and transportation.
04
Employs geothermal energy systems to promote eco-friendly living solutions.
05
Includes communal spaces in the central hub to foster social interaction among guests.

### Overview
The Nomadic Modules project is situated in Iceland, a region characterized by its dramatic landscapes and rich cultural heritage. The intent is to provide a sustainable and flexible accommodation solution that fosters interaction with the natural environment and caters to contemporary tourism needs. The design consists of a central hub complemented by several transportable modules, allowing for adaptable configurations and easy relocation.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The architectural layout emphasizes mobility and flexibility, akin to a modern nomadic lifestyle. The central hub serves as a communal space that provides essential amenities and encourages social interaction among guests. Surrounding this hub are mobile modules designed for self-contained living, which can be arranged based on user preferences. This configuration enhances the overall guest experience by creating a variety of shared spaces, fostering a sense of community while also allowing for individual solitude when desired.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The choice of materials is integral to the project’s resilience and aesthetic alignment with Iceland's environment. Timber panels are combined with double-glazed glass to offer thermal efficiency and maintain a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. A steel framework underpins the structure, providing the necessary strength while facilitating mobility. Durable flooring and adaptable interior finishes further enhance the modules' functionality, allowing for customization based on occupants' needs. Sustainable practices are central to the design, incorporating renewable energy sources and responsible resource management to minimize environmental impact.

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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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