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Cork-Insulated Shelters Crafted from Modular Wood Systems for Trekkers in Iceland

Authors:
Tommaso Lanza, camillo Marchionatti, Konstantinos Douvaras
Cork-Insulated Shelters Crafted from Modular Wood Systems for Trekkers in Iceland

Project in-detail

Utilizing sustainable cork insulation and modular wooden construction, this design offers customizable cabins that seamlessly blend with Iceland's rugged landscape, providing essential shelter for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cork insulation for enhanced thermal performance and sustainability.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes structural efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
03
Customizable exterior colors allow users to personalize cabin appearances.
04
Incorporates rainwater harvesting systems for self-sufficient water usage.
05
Modular construction enables flexible configurations based on site and user needs.

## Overview
The Identity Project proposes a network of modular cabins designed specifically for trekkers, with a focus on sustainability and user experience. Located primarily in Iceland, the cabins are intended to blend into diverse natural landscapes, accommodating both mountainous and coastal settings. The project aims to create structures that serve as personal retreats, reflecting the identities of their occupants while providing necessary shelter and comfort in remote environments.

## Modular Design and User Experience
The modular approach allows for flexibility in the configuration of each cabin, offering versatility in layout and aesthetic. Key spaces include a multifunctional living area equipped with a kitchen and adaptable furniture, as well as sleeping quarters featuring sliding doors to maximize privacy and space efficiency. Smart design elements ensure ample storage solutions while maintaining a modern, streamlined atmosphere. The cabins incorporate innovative connectors designed for easy assembly and disassembly, enabling customization based on user needs.

## Material Selection and Energy Efficiency
Material choices are central to the project’s objectives of sustainability and durability. Glass facades enhance natural light and visibility while contributing to energy efficiency through solar harnessing. Wood is used extensively in both structural and interior applications, creating a warm ambiance and providing natural insulation. Cork is utilized for its thermal properties, further enhancing comfort, while metal components ensure structural integrity. Additionally, the cabins are equipped with energy-efficient technologies such as solar panels and rainwater collection systems, promoting a low environmental impact and facilitating a connection to nature through integrated technology for energy monitoring.

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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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