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Curvilinear Metal Shell With ETFE Membrane and Rainwater Filtration for Sustainable Trekking Shelter

Authors:
Scott Erdy, Zamir Garcia, Jose Pertierra, Yuheng Ouyang
Curvilinear Metal Shell With ETFE Membrane and Rainwater Filtration for Sustainable Trekking Shelter

Project in-detail

A curvilinear metal shell envelops an ETFE membrane and integrates a rainwater filtration system, creating a sustainable shelter for trekkers in Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear exterior design enhances wind resistance and aesthetic integration with the landscape.
02
ETFE membrane provides natural lighting while maintaining thermal insulation and structural efficiency.
03
Local volcanic rock and sand are utilized for the rainwater filtration system, connecting the design to its site.
04
A wind turbine harnesses renewable energy, promoting self-sufficiency for user needs.
05
Sleeping areas are strategically oriented to maximize views of the surrounding Icelandic scenery.

**Project Overview**

Located within the striking landscapes of Iceland, öryggi skel, or “Safety Shell,” is designed as a trekking cabin that prioritizes user comfort while fostering a connection to nature. The intent of the project is to create a shelter that resonates with its environment, emphasizing sustainability in response to the unique climatic and geological conditions of the region. This structure serves as a resting point for trekkers, promoting engagement with the natural landscape rather than mere observation.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

The material palette of öryggi skel is carefully chosen to reflect the project's sustainability objectives. The exterior is clad in a tough metal that provides durability against the extreme weather conditions typical of Iceland. A double-layer ETFE (Ethylene Tetrafluoroethylene) membrane allows natural light into the cabin while offering insulation, contributing to the building's energy efficiency. In addition, local volcanic rocks, sand, and Icelandic moss are integrated into a water filtration system, reinforcing the commitment to utilizing regional materials. Natural insulation solutions sourced locally enhance the cabin's operational effectiveness across varying climates.

**Design Integration and User Experience**

The design of öryggi skel showcases a curvilinear exterior that mirrors the organic forms found in Iceland's natural landscape, promoting minimal environmental impact and wind resistance. The interior layout is optimized for user experience, featuring sleeping areas aligned with the horizon to foster spatial orientation and balance. Essential amenities such as a restroom and shower are incorporated into the design seamlessly.

Innovative energy solutions supplement the cabin's functionality, including a wind turbine to harness renewable energy and a rainwater collection system that uses locally sourced volcanic rock for filtration. These elements contribute to the cabin's self-sufficiency, ensuring that occupants have access to fresh air and water while immersed in the natural surroundings.

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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
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