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Foldable Cabin with Lightweight Aluminum Structure and Panoramic Views for Trekkers

Authors:
Friedrich Stflorian, Faia, Matthew Aiello, B.s. Architecture, Yu Cao, B.s. Landscape Architecture, David Odeh, Odeh Engineers Inc.
Foldable Cabin with Lightweight Aluminum Structure and Panoramic Views for Trekkers
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A foldable cabin with a lightweight aluminum structure and panoramic glass panels offers trekkers a resilient and sustainable shelter, seamlessly integrating modern design with the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Foldable design allows for easy transport and rapid assembly in remote locations.
02
Panoramic glass panels optimize natural light and connectivity with the surrounding landscape.
03
Lightweight aluminum frame enhances structural integrity while reducing overall weight.
04
Integrated wind turbine supports energy self-sufficiency for off-grid living.
05
Rainwater collection system promotes sustainability and resource efficiency.

### Project Overview

The Iceland Trekking Cabin has been designed for a competition titled "Reaching For The Stars," with the objective of providing a functional and sustainable shelter for trekkers within the challenging Icelandic landscape. The design employs a pyramid form, recognized historically for its stability and adaptability, allowing it to perform effectively in dynamic environmental conditions.

### Geometric Structure and Spatial Composition

The architectural strategy centers on an interlocking system of triangular and polygonal forms that evolve from a folded to a fully expanded structure. This modular design enhances transportability and site-specific adaptability. Key aspects include foldability, which facilitates flexible assembly in various orientations, and visual continuity, created through sharp angles and overlapping planes that produce a dynamic aesthetic. These geometric elements not only serve to enrich the visual experience but also contribute to the overall structural integrity of the cabin.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The choice of materials balances functionality with environmental considerations, reflecting Iceland’s ecological ethos. The cabin’s framework consists of lightweight aluminum, providing necessary strength with minimal weight. The exterior is clad in a lightweight tensile fabric, effective in insulation and weather resistance while supporting the folding design. Additional features such as insulated wall panels enhance energy efficiency, and glass panels allow natural light to permeate the interior.

The cabin incorporates renewable energy solutions, including a wind turbine for onsite energy generation and a rainwater collection system that promotes self-sufficiency. Moreover, battery storage located beneath benches aids in optimizing energy management, ensuring independence from external resources.

### Interior Design and Functionality

Inside, the cabin is designed around a functional layout that prioritizes comfort and social interaction. The sleeping loft features multiple beds, strategically arranged to maximize privacy and space, complemented by large windows that offer expansive views of the surroundings. The ground floor, designated as the living core, encourages communal activities and enhances the connection between occupants and nature. An open-plan layout and ergonomically designed furniture facilitate movement and interaction, reinforcing the cabin’s role as a communal retreat.

Overall, the Iceland Trekking Cabin stands out for its innovative folding mechanism, which allows for compact transport and assembly, seamless integration with the natural environment, and commitment to sustainable practices, making it a noteworthy example of contemporary eco-focused architecture.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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