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Geothermal Heating and Corrugated Metal Form a Sustainable Retreat in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Hsin-lun Lu, Yuhe Chi
Geothermal Heating and Corrugated Metal Form a Sustainable Retreat in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing geothermal heating and durable corrugated metal, the design creates a sustainable retreat that integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape while offering functional guest accommodations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal heating systems reduce energy consumption and enhance sustainability.
02
Modular guest units designed to mimic glacier shapes for integration with the landscape.
03
Corrugated metal cladding provides durability and reflects local architectural traditions.
04
Wind-resistant design features optimize comfort and safety in harsh climates.
05
Rainwater harvesting systems contribute to efficient water management on-site.

### Location and Concept

The Onshore Glacier Village is situated in northeastern Iceland, near Reykjavík, where its design is influenced by the region's distinct climatic and geographical features. Drawing from the natural environment, particularly the nearby glaciers, the architectural approach emphasizes the need for harmony with the landscape while addressing the requirements of visitors and residents alike.

### Master Plan Configuration

The project features a thoughtfully organized master plan with designated zones: a guest zone, private zone, communal terrace, and an equestrian facility. The layout fosters interaction with the surrounding nature, while providing private and communal spaces tailored to diverse user needs. The guest zone promotes engagement with the landscape, while the private zone enhances seclusion and tranquility. The terrace is strategically placed to maximize views and social interactions, and the horse barn serves practical equestrian purposes, reflecting the local culture.

### Material Selection and Sustainability Strategy

The architectural design prioritizes sustainability through the careful selection of materials that are predominantly local and environmentally friendly. Key materials include:

- **Corrugated Metal**: Utilized for roofing and walls, this material offers durability and thermal insulation, resonating with traditional Icelandic architecture.
- **Wood**: Incorporated for structural elements, wood enriches the interior environment and aligns with sustainable practices.
- **Thermal Glass**: Selected for maximizing natural light while providing excellent insulation to enhance energy efficiency.
- **Steel Framework**: Included to ensure structural integrity, particularly in response to the region's harsh weather conditions.

The use of locally sourced materials minimizes transport emissions and deepens the project's connection to its geographical context.

### Design Innovations and User Experience

The design incorporates modularity within the guest structures, allowing for flexible configurations that can adapt to varying accommodation needs, such as double or four-room units inspired by glacial forms. This modular design facilitates efficient assembly and relocation, which is beneficial given Iceland's unpredictable weather patterns.

In the private zone, design considerations are made to mitigate wind exposure. The facade is specifically narrowed to reduce potential structural stress from prevailing winds, enhancing comfort for residents.

Additional design elements enhance usability and energy efficiency, including sloped roofs that effectively manage rain and snow, advanced insulation techniques that minimize heating costs, and open-plan layouts that promote both socialization and privacy.

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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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