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Curved Titanium Cladding and Reclaimed Wood in a Residential Retreat Embracing Auroral Views

Authors:
Auekarn Laosatirawong, Charinrat Rungruengsri, Yingying Miao, Karn Khamkaew
Curved Titanium Cladding and Reclaimed Wood in a Residential Retreat Embracing Auroral Views

Project in-detail

Curved titanium cladding and reclaimed wood create a seamless dialogue between interior comfort and the captivating auroras of Iceland, designed to serve as a residential retreat that embraces both sustainability and natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved titanium cladding integrates with the landscape while reflecting changing light conditions.
02
Reclaimed wood is utilized throughout to reduce environmental impact and enhance local character.
03
Geothermal heating systems are employed for energy efficiency in the harsh Icelandic climate.
04
Open-plan interiors are designed to provide unobstructed views of the northern lights.
05
The bent A-frame design promotes natural ventilation and maximizes thermal performance.

## Project Overview

Located in Iceland, this design emphasizes the interplay between human habitation and the natural phenomenon of auroras. The spatial arrangement utilizes curvilinear forms to reflect the region's geological and meteorological characteristics. The intentional design promotes an immersive experience for residents and visitors while prioritizing sustainable practices that minimize ecological impact in a delicate environment.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The design’s primary focus on curvilinear forms creates both aesthetic and practical advantages, allowing for a seamless flow between spaces without sharp transitions. The architecture references local topography through upward curves that echo the surrounding mountains and valleys. Interior spaces are carefully arranged to enhance comfort and social interaction, balancing communal areas with private retreats. Open common areas, adorned with local art and plants, foster a sense of community, while guest spaces feature geothermal heating and a unique lighting design that mimics the natural ambiance of the auroras.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices underscore both aesthetic considerations and environmental stewardship. The extensive use of glass in the façade maximizes natural light and ensures unobstructed views of the auroras, strengthening the connection to the landscape. Durable titanium cladding not only reflects the northern lights but also withstands Iceland’s harsh climate. The incorporation of recycled and locally sourced materials, including reclaimed wood for interior fixtures, highlights a commitment to sustainability. Energy-efficient features such as geothermal heating and optimized natural light further enhance the building's performance while reducing its ecological footprint.

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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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