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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.
Ice Wide Open Project Analysis

The Ice Wide Open project represents a contemporary architectural response to Iceland’s unique landscape and climate, incorporating historical design elements from traditional Icelandic turf houses. The project emphasizes both sustainability and functionality, creating a living environment that respects the natural surroundings while providing essential amenities for its inhabitants. This architectural endeavor is strategically positioned roughly 200 meters from a lake, enhancing connectivity to the natural environment.

The main objective of the Ice Wide Open project is to foster a harmonious relationship between the built environment and nature, offering flexible residential arrangements and communal spaces that promote social interaction. The design includes various zones, notably a greenhouse, residential structures, and stables, which together create a self-sufficient ecosystem.

Sustainable Design Elements

The project is marked by its use of repurposed shipping containers as the primary structural components for the residential areas. This approach not only minimizes material waste but also lends a unique aesthetic to the design. The containers are configured to maximize space efficiency, accommodating family units and guest lodgings, thus enhancing the project's community-driven vision.

In addition to the residential spaces, the greenhouse plays a crucial role in the overall design. It is constructed with tempered glass and PVC, allowing for optimal sunlight intake while providing insulation. Inside, the greenhouse functions as a cultivation area, generating a microclimate conducive to plant growth year-round and supporting the inhabitants’ needs for agricultural sustainability.

Water collection is another pivotal aspect of this project. The design incorporates systems to collect rainwater and snow from the greenhouse, ensuring a reliable source of water while minimizing reliance on external resources. Energy efficiency is further addressed through the inclusion of wind power turbines, which generate renewable energy for the residential spaces.

Spatial Organization and Functionality

Spatially, the Ice Wide Open project adopts a layout that encourages interaction among users while allowing for privacy when needed. The arrangement of the shipping containers creates distinct zones: a communal kitchen and living area serve as the heart of the residential setting, while private sleeping areas maintain a sense of personal space.

The stables, which also utilize shipping containers, are thoughtfully integrated to support the lifestyle of the inhabitants, promoting alternative modes of transport and engagement with animals. This aspect highlights the multifunctionality of the site, catering to diverse needs and fostering a sense of community.

The design is further enriched by the inclusion of rooftop gardens, which not only contribute to thermal performance but also provide additional recreational areas for residents. Such innovative solutions enhance the livability of the environment while maintaining a strong connection to the surrounding landscape.

Exploring the Ice Wide Open project offers an opportunity to gain deeper insights into its architectural plans, sections, designs, and fundamental ideas. These elements collectively articulate a vision of sustainable living that respects both the environment and cultural heritage. For more details, viewers are encouraged to engage with the project presentation, which showcases the intricate dimensions and thoughtful architectural choices made throughout the Ice Wide Open project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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