Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Adjustable Elevation for Remote Living

Authors:
Christophe Caranchini, Christophe Caranchini
Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Adjustable Elevation for Remote Living

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and a unique octagonal form, this mobile shelter incorporates adjustable elevation and a rainwater collection system, offering a sustainable solution for outdoor living in remote environments.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for structural integrity and efficient insulation.
02
Features a unique octagonal shape for enhanced spatial dynamics and natural light penetration.
03
Incorporates adjustable elevation to adapt to uneven terrain and facilitate water drainage.
04
Includes a rainwater collection system with filtration for sustainable water use.
05
Offers a multifunctional interior layout with foldable furniture for optimized space utilization.

### Project Overview

The Shelter Capsule is designed as a compact, sustainable living space tailored for remote wilderness locations, particularly in areas like the mountainous regions of Iceland. Its primary objective is to provide a resilient shelter option for eco-tourists and outdoor enthusiasts, facilitating a secure base for exploration in nature. The design emphasizes functionality and eco-friendliness while maintaining an aesthetically pleasing form that integrates well with the surrounding environment.

### Architectural Form and Structure

The Shelter Capsule features an octagonal shape that optimizes interior space while minimizing external surface area, enhancing thermal efficiency and reducing exposure to harsh weather. The structure is elevated on adjustable legs, allowing it to adapt to uneven terrain and facilitate effective water drainage. Internally, the layout includes sleeping bunk beds with integrated storage, a multifunctional central area for dining and social activities, and strategically placed windows and skylights that create a connection to the natural landscape.

### Materials and Sustainability Features

Utilizing sustainable materials is central to the Shelter Capsule's design. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) panels provide structural stability while ensuring a lightweight build. An 8 cm thick layer of Rockwool insulation enhances thermal performance and acoustic comfort. The exterior is clad in coated aluminum panels, adding durability and a modern aesthetic, while marine-grade plywood is used for interior surfaces for practical and lightweight functionality.

The structure incorporates solar panels for energy generation, ensuring a self-sufficient power source for essential systems, such as lighting and charging stations. A rainwater collection system, accompanied by a filtration unit, supports sustainable water use, crucial for remote settings. Notable user-centric features include an accessibility ramp, adjustable tilting feet for varying topography, and a designated cleaning zone for gear maintenance. The striking red color of the Shelter Capsule enhances visibility while contributing to its modern design. Additionally, the modularity of the unit allows for connection with other capsules, fostering communal living for larger groups.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy