Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Geodesic Greenhouse and Shipping Containers Forming a Sustainable Community Habitat

Authors:
Emanuele Bergamaschi, Kristin Raidloo
Geodesic Greenhouse and Shipping Containers Forming a Sustainable Community Habitat

Project in-detail

Constructed from repurposed shipping containers and a geodesic greenhouse, the architectural design creates a self-sustaining habitat that fosters community living in harmony with Iceland's landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using repurposed shipping containers to reduce material waste.
02
Incorporates a geodesic greenhouse for optimal light and temperature control.
03
Features a water collection system that harnesses rain and snow for sustainability.
04
Utilizes a modular layout, enhancing flexibility in space usage.
05
Integrates stables within the design to support animal welfare and recreation.

### Project Overview

The "Ice Wide Open" project, situated approximately 200 meters from a serene lake, draws upon the architectural heritage of traditional Icelandic turf houses while incorporating modern design practices. The intent is to create a residential space that fosters a harmonious relationship between built environments and the natural landscape, aligning with sustainable principles throughout its design.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The design delineates distinct functional areas, promoting adaptability and collective living. Key components include a greenhouse designed as an environmental buffer that provides cultivation space and insulation for living quarters, and lodging structures comprising six repurposed shipping containers that accommodate families, staff, and guests. A comprehensive water collection system utilizes rain and snow, enhancing resource efficiency and addressing water accessibility, especially during colder months. Additional elements, such as stables made from shipping containers, support animal welfare and recreational activities.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices reflect a dual commitment to sustainability and functionality. The greenhouse employs tempered glass and PVC to optimize natural light while ensuring insulation. Internal spaces are characterized by timber finishes that promote warmth, while reclaimed shipping containers form the structural backbone of the lodging areas, exemplifying a responsible approach to resource use. The project integrates renewable energy sources, including small-scale wind power turbines, further reinforcing its off-grid living philosophy alongside innovative water collection techniques.

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