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Elevated Shelter Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Hervé Perraud, Philippe Peson, Marco Meli, Célia Mazière
Elevated Shelter Crafted with Cross-Laminated Timber Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Suspended above the rugged Icelandic landscape, the cabin utilizes cross-laminated timber panels and charred wooden shingles to create a sustainable shelter that blends functionality with environmental sensitivity for outdoor enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
Suspended structure minimizes ground disruption and preserves natural vegetation.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
Incorporates a rainwater collection system for sustainable water usage.
04
Features a communal interior layout that promotes social interaction among occupants.
05
Innovatively combines traditional Icelandic design elements with modern materials.

### Overview

The project, "Suspended Beacon," is located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland and is designed as a remote cabin for outdoor enthusiasts. By integrating modern architectural concepts with traditional Icelandic longhouses, the design seeks to provide a functional and inviting shelter that reflects both regional heritage and contemporary needs. The structure serves as a landmark within the vast terrain, offering safety and guidance for trekkers navigating the wilderness.

### Material Composition and Sustainability

The use of materials is critical to the cabin's performance and ecological footprint. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is selected for its structural strength and thermal insulation properties, while reinforced concrete anchors the cabin, ensuring stability against Iceland's harsh weather conditions. Photovoltaic panels integrated into the roof generate renewable energy, and a rainwater harvesting system promotes resource efficiency. Additionally, the incorporation of tensile fabrics adds flexibility to the design while minimizing weight. These choices collectively create a resilient habitation solution, capable of adapting to extreme environmental challenges.

### Architectural Design and User Interaction

The architectural form features a zigzag silhouette that enhances wind resistance and complements the undulating landscape. Inside, the design promotes communal living with a central dining area and strategically placed bunks that maximize space and comfort. Elevated above the ground on a series of cables, the structure minimizes ecological disruption and offers unobstructed views of the natural surroundings, including the northern lights. This design philosophy emphasizes user experience by providing opportunities for social interaction while maintaining a connection to the natural environment, thereby enriching the overall experience of users amidst the wilderness.

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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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