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Corten Steel Shelter with Wind Turbine and Geothermal Heating for Remote Trekking Accommodation

Author:
Lukas Beyerle
Corten Steel Shelter with Wind Turbine and Geothermal Heating for Remote Trekking Accommodation

Project in-detail

Constructed from corten steel and designed with an integrated wind turbine and geothermal heating, the shelter provides an efficient and sustainable accommodation solution for trekkers navigating the harsh Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes corten steel for durability and integration into the natural landscape.
02
Incorporates a wind turbine to generate renewable energy on-site.
03
Features geothermal heating for energy-efficient climate control.
04
Modular design allows for easy assembly and potential expansion.
05
Optimizes communal spaces to enhance social interaction among guests.

### Overview

The Rotor Home, developed for the Iceland Trekking Shelter Competition in 2016, addresses the needs of trekkers and nature enthusiasts in a challenging Icelandic landscape. This design reflects a comprehensive understanding of the environmental context and temporary living requirements, prioritizing both functionality and user experience. It responds to climatic and geological conditions, positioning itself as an integrated component of its surroundings.

### Spatial Configuration and Function

The modular design consists of five distinct segments that maximize utility and interaction. The top segment features a wind turbine that not only generates electricity but also collects rainwater to support sustainable operations. A common room on the second floor fosters community engagement among visitors, while the third and fourth floors are dedicated to living accommodations for up to eight guests, designed with bunk beds and ample storage for comfort in confined spaces. The engineering room operates the wind turbine and manages energy resources, incorporating geothermal systems to optimize efficiency. The circular layout enhances movement flow and reduces wind resistance, ensuring a cohesive experience for all users.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices significantly shape both the visual and functional aspects of the Rotor Home. Corten steel has been selected for the façade due to its durability and aesthetic adaptability, evolving in appearance with environmental exposure. Aluminum supports the structural framework while maintaining lightweight characteristics conducive to sustainability. Generous glazing allows natural light penetration and scenic views of the landscape, while wood features throughout the interiors provide warmth and a connection to nature. Insulating sandwich panels enhance thermal performance, critical in Iceland’s climate. This combination of materials not only emphasizes robustness but also aligns with principles of sustainable design, showcasing a commitment to both functionality and ecological responsibility.

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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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