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Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Solar Panels in a Sustainable Residential Structure

Authors:
Kseniia Savchenko, Andrey Aksonov, Fedor Prudnikov, Anna Cesar
Charred Wooden Shingles and Transparent Solar Panels in a Sustainable Residential Structure

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and transparent solar panels, the residence integrates seamlessly with its Icelandic landscape while providing a sustainable living environment through advanced energy efficiency and communal spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
02
Transparent solar panels integrated into the façade for energy generation without obstructing views.
03
Features a bent A-frame design for improved stability and aesthetic appeal in rugged terrain.
04
Resting pod arrangement optimizes communal living while providing privacy and scenic vistas.
05
Employs geothermal heating and wind turbine systems for self-sufficient energy management.

### Overview

The Iceland House is situated in a rugged Icelandic landscape, designed to respond to the unique environmental conditions of the region. The intent behind the project is to create a sustainable habitat that harmonizes with its surroundings while employing traditional materials and contemporary engineering techniques. The architectural form is developed to adapt to the varying topography, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic coherence with the landscape.

### Form and Structural Design

The structure features a dynamic angular silhouette that integrates naturally with the terrain. A hydraulic support system accommodates the hilly environment, ensuring stability while minimizing ecological disruption. Additionally, a tensegrity system is employed in the wind turbine stand, reflecting a commitment to modern engineering principles that balance strength with lightweight construction.

### Materiality and Energy Efficiency

The facade utilizes traditional corrugated metal, enhancing durability and thermal performance under Iceland's extreme weather conditions. Large expanses of glass are incorporated to maximize natural light and offer scenic views, while the interior features warm wooden finishes that contribute to communal living spaces.

To promote sustainability, the design includes transparent solar panels that generate electricity without obstructing views, alongside a wind turbine and geothermal heating system. Water management is addressed through a rainwater collection system and waste recycling capabilities, further enhancing the building’s self-sufficiency and reducing its 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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