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Geometric Cabin Design Featuring Solar Panels and Corrugated Metal in Iceland's Wilderness

Author:
Rodrigo Zayas
Geometric Cabin Design Featuring Solar Panels and Corrugated Metal in Iceland's Wilderness
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Constructed with a distinctive icosahedral shape and clad in corrugated metal, these modular cabins harness solar energy to provide sustainable shelter for trekkers navigating Iceland’s rugged landscapes.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes an efficient icosahedral form to optimize wind resistance and structural stability.
02
Incorporates solar panels for renewable energy, enhancing sustainability in remote locations.
03
Constructed with corrugated metal panels for durability against harsh weather conditions.
04
Features a dual-level layout to maximize functional space and user convenience.
05
Employs local materials and geotextiles to integrate seamlessly with the natural environment.

### Project Overview
The Shelter Hubs project consists of a series of modular trekking cabins designed for outdoor enthusiasts in Iceland’s diverse terrain. The primary objective is to provide temporary shelters that withstand the local environmental challenges while prioritizing flexibility, ease of assembly, and sustainability.

### Spatial Strategy and Design Elements
Each shelter utilizes a modular system that adapts to various geological and climatic conditions, ensuring resilience in a dynamic landscape. The geometric design, inspired by the icosahedron, enhances manufacturing efficiency and minimizes wind resistance, which is essential in Iceland's high-wind environment. The thoughtful arrangement of upper and lower levels maximizes functional use, featuring amenities such as toilets, sinks, and showers for convenience, alongside sleeping areas and practical systems for water management and waste filtration.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
The materials chosen for Shelter Hubs emphasize both durability and environmental compatibility. Integrated solar panels provide renewable energy for the shelters, while corrugated metal panels offer insulation against harsh weather, echoing traditional Icelandic architectural aesthetics. The use of geotextiles aids in natural water filtration, promoting environmental harmony. Large double-glazed openings facilitate natural light, improving interior conditions while maintaining energy efficiency. The combination of these elements underscores a commitment to sustainability and the efficient use of local resources.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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