Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Eco-Friendly Retreat Crafted From Hempcrete and Bamboo in Iceland's Mountain Landscape

Author:
David Eric Naill
Eco-Friendly Retreat Crafted From Hempcrete and Bamboo in Iceland's Mountain Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from sustainable hempcrete and bamboo, this retreat incorporates a gable roof design that efficiently manages snow, providing a comfortable space for winter sports enthusiasts amidst Iceland's rugged terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with hempcrete for enhanced insulation and sustainability.
02
Incorporates bamboo for structural integrity and flexibility.
03
Designed with a gable roof to efficiently manage snow load.
04
Features large glass panels for panoramic views and natural light.
05
Utilizes a green roofing system to support local vegetation and biodiversity.

### Overview

The Iceland Ski Cabin is located in a rugged mountainous region of Iceland, designed to accommodate ski enthusiasts and nature lovers. The project integrates traditional building practices with contemporary sustainable techniques, responding to the challenges posed by the local climatic conditions and the unique landscape. This design reflects a careful consideration of materiality and cultural context, contributing to a distinctive architectural identity.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The cabin features a triangular gable roof that facilitates snow collection while enhancing sunlight exposure in winter. Inside, the spatial organization emphasizes warmth and social interaction, with interconnected areas designated for relaxation, equipment maintenance, and refreshments. Common areas include a cozy lounge equipped with a fireplace and refreshment stations for easy access to snacks and beverages. Changing rooms are integrated to support the practical needs of skiers, ensuring comfort and convenience.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The construction employs a variety of sustainable materials that underscore environmental responsibility. Hempcrete, a lightweight and energy-efficient material, is used prominently, complemented by local timber for framing and interior finishes. Bamboo provides structural support while being an eco-friendly alternative to traditional timber. Additional sustainable features include solar panels for energy generation and green roofing components to enhance thermal efficiency. This meticulous selection of materials minimizes environmental impact and promotes long-term energy efficiency.

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