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Elevated Shelter Crafted From Sheep Wool Insulation and Aluminum Cladding for Sustainable Trekking

Authors:
W. Allen Zimmerman, Marie Wastiau, Alin Balaj, Ivo Costa
Elevated Shelter Crafted From Sheep Wool Insulation and Aluminum Cladding for Sustainable Trekking

Project in-detail

Crafted from sheep wool insulation and aluminum cladding, this elevated shelter integrates sustainable practices with minimalist design, providing a functional resting space for trekkers exploring Iceland's rugged terrain.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted using locally sourced sheep wool for insulation, enhancing sustainability.
02
Elevated platform design minimizes environmental impact and promotes natural drainage.
03
Incorporates aluminum cladding for durability against harsh weather conditions.
04
Sleeping cells allow for personal storage solutions tailored to trekkers' needs.
05
Integrates rainwater harvesting systems designed for self-sufficiency in remote areas.

### Project Overview
Located in Iceland, the trekking huts designed in "Gently From the Path" aim to provide essential accommodations for hikers while minimizing environmental impact. This conceptual architectural project integrates a contemporary interpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture, focusing on respecting the natural landscape and enhancing the hiking experience. By situating the huts along established natural pathways, the design seeks to offer a space for rest, reflection, and social interaction, aligning with a philosophy of leaving a minimal footprint in the wilderness.

### Spatial Organization and Functionality
The layout of the huts is carefully considered to optimize functionality and views of the surrounding landscape. Configured with multiple sleeping cells, the design promotes both privacy and opportunities for social engagement among trekkers. A communal kitchen and dining area serve as the heart of the structure, fostering interactions while providing essential amenities. Additionally, an integrated water and waste management system enhances sustainability through the collection of rainwater and melted snow for domestic use, paired with a septic system that ensures the hut operates independently from local infrastructure.

### Material Choice and Environmental Considerations
The selection of materials reflects both durability and sustainability imperative to adapting to Iceland's harsh climate. The architectural framework utilizes aluminum cladding for weather resistance and incorporates sandwich panels with stone wool insulation for thermal efficiency. Renewable resources, such as sheep wool insulation and birch wood multiplex, contribute to the hut's environmental performance. The design prioritizes energy efficiency through the implementation of green energy solutions for charging portable devices, alongside strategies for rainwater harvesting, ensuring that the huts align with contemporary sustainability practices while respecting the regional architectural vernacular.

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

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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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