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Cork-Structured Guest Houses Integrated with Solar Panels for Ecological Tourism

Author:
Roman Karpov
Cork-Structured Guest Houses Integrated with Solar Panels for Ecological Tourism

Project in-detail

Cork-studded structures equipped with photovoltaic technology blend seamlessly into Iceland's landscape, offering sustainable guest accommodations that foster a deep connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cork is used as the primary structural material for insulation and environmental sustainability.
02
Each guest house features movable foundations, allowing for site adaptability.
03
Solar panels are integrated into the design for efficient energy self-sufficiency.
04
Large glass panels provide panoramic views while maintaining thermal regulation.
05
The design includes advanced water management systems for sustainability.

### Overview

The Solarvörn (Solar Shield) project is situated in the diverse landscape of Iceland, designed as a series of guest houses that integrate ecological sustainability with cultural relevance. These structures feature an autonomous life support system, enabling mobility across the natural terrain. The project emphasizes a connection between visitors and the surrounding environment, utilizing renewable energy sources, particularly solar panels, to align with current sustainability practices in architecture.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality

The arrangement of buildings across the site demonstrates a deliberate integration with the landscape, optimizing views while minimizing environmental impact. The design encompasses not only individual guest houses but also communal areas, including a dining space, spa facilities, and observation areas for nature engagement. Each guest house is designed with a functional flow between floors, featuring living areas, kitchens, sanitary spaces, and terraces that promote indoor-outdoor interaction.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A diverse range of materials has been employed in this project, emphasizing both sustainability and aesthetic appeal. Cork serves as a primary structural material due to its lightweight and renewable characteristics, providing effective insulation. Concrete offers durability against Iceland's challenging weather, while large glass panels enhance natural light and create visual continuity with the exterior landscape. Additionally, wood is used in decking and walkways to introduce warmth and contrast to the concrete and glass elements.

The design includes advanced water management systems, allowing for the recycling of pool water for landscaping needs, further reflecting an environmental stewardship commitment. The guest houses are designed for mobility, ensuring adaptability for future requirements, while hybrid energy systems capitalize on solar power alongside lithium-ion storage solutions for efficient energy management.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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