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Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Geothermal Heating in the Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Patricio Tejedo, Emiliano Renovales
Cross-Laminated Timber Shelter with Geothermal Heating in the Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and geothermal systems, this shelter minimizes its ecological footprint while providing a functional retreat for outdoor enthusiasts in the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber for rapid construction and structural stability.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design to enhance snow management and aerodynamics.
03
Features extensive glazing to optimize natural light and views of the landscape.
04
Includes geothermal heating to achieve energy efficiency in extreme climates.
05
Integrates a greenhouse terrace that extends outdoor usability throughout the year.

## Project Overview
Located in Iceland, the "Ice Bound" structure addresses the challenges posed by the region's extreme climate through a design that melds traditional Nordic cabin aesthetics with bioclimatic principles. The intent is to create a sustainable retreat that prioritizes comfort, natural light, and thermal efficiency, while also harmonizing with the striking Icelandic landscape.

## Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The layout is organized into three interconnected structures linked by a central pathway, optimizing solar orientation. The first floor provides essential amenities such as equipment check-in areas, restrooms, and parking for snowmobiles, along with a workshop space for various outdoor activities. Communal areas, including a spacious living room and kitchen, are situated on the second floor to enhance social interaction among visitors. A greenhouse terrace further promotes outdoor connectivity, extending usable space and offering panoramic views of the surrounding environment.

## Material Selection and Sustainability
Materiality plays a crucial role in the project's durability and environmental integration. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural component, providing strength along with expedited assembly processes. Extensive glazing is employed to maximize daylight and views while functioning as a thermal barrier. Steel elements are incorporated to enhance structural integrity and facilitate efficient construction methods. The selection of materials reflects a balance between traditional techniques and contemporary innovations, reinforcing the commitment to sustainability and ecological compatibility inherent in the design philosophy.

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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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