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Corten Steel Cabins with Expanded Cork Insulation Positioned for Minimal Ecological Impact

Author:
Matthew Cooper
Corten Steel Cabins with Expanded Cork Insulation Positioned for Minimal Ecological Impact

Project in-detail

Constructed from weathered Corten steel and insulated with renewable cork, these modular cabins provide sustainable accommodation for trekkers in Iceland's pristine wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using Corten steel that develops a protective patina, enhancing integration with the landscape.
02
Expanded cork insulation provides superior thermal performance while being a renewable resource.
03
Modular design allows for easy transport and relocation, reducing ecological footprint.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems ensure self-sufficiency in water supply for users.
05
Eco-friendly sanitation solutions promote minimal environmental impact during operation.

## Project Overview

Located in Iceland's remote landscapes, the Trekking Cabins project aims to accommodate the increasing influx of tourists while preserving the integrity of the surrounding environment. The design incorporates a series of portable cabins that provide shelter for trekkers exploring Iceland's varied terrain, which includes striking glaciers and mountains. The project's core intent centers on minimizing ecological disruption and enhancing the experience of immersion in nature.

### Design Strategy and Sustainability

The cabins are conceived under the theme of "Disintegrated Form," promoting structures that can be easily disassembled and relocated. This modular design reduces construction impacts on the delicate terrain. The selection of environmentally friendly materials further supports sustainability goals, ensuring a minimal ecological footprint throughout the structures' life spans.

The architectural expression features distinct geometric shapes that mirror the natural forms found in the environment. Warm ochre tones and weathered copper accents are used to blend the cabins into the landscape, maintaining visual cohesion with their surroundings. Structural components, such as Corten steel for the exterior, expanded cork insulation, and wood interiors, enhance performance while prioritizing sustainability.

### Adaptability and User Experience

The design facilitates adaptability to various terrains, with small, separate dormitory-style cabins enhancing privacy for users in remote locations. Each unit supports off-site assembly, allowing for reduced construction disturbances. Operable windows encourage natural ventilation, and water systems designed for rainwater harvesting promote self-sufficiency.

With a focus on portability, the cabins can be transported via helicopter, ensuring minimal impact on the local ecosystem during installation. These strategic design elements contribute to an immersive experience, allowing trekkers to engage fully with Iceland's pristine natural beauty while adhering to fundamental principles of environmental stewardship.

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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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