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Cross-Laminated Timber Homes Merging With Icelandic Landscapes Through Sustainable Design

Authors:
Sam Walters, Oli Matini, Jake Scargill
Cross-Laminated Timber Homes Merging With Icelandic Landscapes Through Sustainable Design

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, this architecture project seamlessly integrates sustainable living within Iceland's rugged terrain, offering a series of versatile residential units designed for communal interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates modular design for customizable living spaces tailored to occupants’ needs.
03
Employs a bent A-frame structure to optimize natural light and space efficiency.
04
Integrates seamlessly with Iceland's rugged topography, minimizing environmental disruption.
05
Features communal areas that promote local craftsmanship and social interaction among residents.

## Project Overview
Located in a cascading mountainous landscape reminiscent of Iceland, the design integrates sustainable living with a profound connection to nature. Inspired by local folklore and the Vegvisir symbol—an ancient Norse navigation aid—the project embodies themes of resilience and environmental stewardship. By applying these cultural references, the design seeks to create a respectful partnership between the built environment and its natural surroundings.

## Spatial Configuration and User Experience
The structure employs a modular system that allows for various configurations based on user needs. Each module can serve multiple functions, ranging from private living spaces to communal areas, encouraging interaction among users while reflecting traditional Icelandic community living. The design fosters a collaborative atmosphere, emphasizing individual customization and engagement with the environment.

## Materiality and Sustainability
Key materials are selected for their sustainability and performance in the harsh Icelandic climate. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is utilized for its structural integrity and eco-friendliness, providing a warm interior ambiance. Areas are strategically designed with glass to maximize natural light, reinforcing the connection with the landscape. Sustainable insulation materials and solar panels further enhance the ecological footprint, promoting energy efficiency and reliance on renewable sources.

In aligning modern architectural practices with cultural narratives and ecological considerations, the design serves as a model for sustainable tourism and community engagement, aiming to enrich the local environment and economy while respecting traditional values.

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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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