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Faceted Cabins Crafted from Titanium and Aerogel Nestled in Iceland's Rugged Landscape

Authors:
TOMAS PINA, ADELA VARMUZOVA, JIRI HAVLIK, ANDREA SROLOVA
Faceted Cabins Crafted from Titanium and Aerogel Nestled in Iceland's Rugged Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with a lightweight titanium structure and layered with aerogel insulation, these faceted cabins offer trekkers a sustainable refuge against Iceland's extreme weather conditions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Fabricated using a lightweight titanium framework for structural integrity and durability.
02
Incorporates innovative aerogel insulation for superior thermal performance in extreme climates.
03
Features adjustable legs for stability on uneven terrain, enhancing adaptability to site conditions.
04
Utilizes transparent solar panels to optimize natural light while generating renewable energy.
05
Designed with a modular layout for efficient use of space, accommodating varied occupant needs.

### Project Overview

The Iceland Trekking Cabins are located in a remote region of Iceland, characterized by its volcanic and glacial landscape. The design reflects a duality of natural elements—fire and ice—integrating these themes into a cohesive architectural framework that supports the needs of trekkers and outdoor enthusiasts. Each cabin is intentionally crafted to resonate with the surrounding terrain, utilizing geometric forms that echo the area's topography.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

Each cabin comprises two primary elements: a mobile core and a protective outer shell. The core, equipped with essential amenities such as an entrance, a small kitchen, storage, and a bathroom, facilitates functional living while maintaining easy access throughout the cabin. The outer shell serves to shield inhabitants from the harsh Icelandic climate while providing additional versatile space that can function as a dining area, bedroom, or lounge. Adjustable legs on the cabins enable stability across varying ground conditions, allowing for adaptability to the rugged environment.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The design integrates advanced materials selected for their durability and environmental performance. Aerogel, recognized for its lightweight and excellent insulation properties, forms a key component of the thermal envelope. Transparent solar panels contribute to energy efficiency, providing both illumination and power generation while maintaining aesthetic transparency. The use of titanium for the structural framework delivers strength without excessive weight, while basalt fabric and silicate boards offer resistance to environmental stresses. Cryogel further enhances thermal performance, essential for maintaining comfort in extreme weather. The careful selection of these materials aligns with sustainable construction principles, reducing the cabins' ecological footprint and promoting resilience in a challenging climate.

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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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