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Geothermal Retreat Forged from 3D-Printed Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Authors:
Danking Bhujel, Suvechha Tandan
Geothermal Retreat Forged from 3D-Printed Panels and Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and advanced 3D-printed panels, the retreat harmonizes with its geothermal landscape to provide a sustainable escape for residents seeking immersion in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced charred wooden shingles that enhance durability and aesthetics.
02
Incorporates 3D-printed panels, allowing for precise design flexibility and unique architectural forms.
03
Utilizes geothermal energy for heating, promoting sustainable living in the Icelandic climate.
04
Features a bent A-frame design that facilitates natural drainage and climatic adaptation.
05
Includes integrated outdoor thermal baths, enhancing the connection to nature and wellness.

**Project Overview**

Located in Iceland, "ísHaven" is designed to integrate human habitation within the dramatic landscape while emphasizing sustainability and cultural heritage. The intent of the project is to create a space that facilitates a connection to nature and contemporary living, reflecting the region's unique environmental context. Utilizing an A-frame geometric structure, the design draws from traditional Icelandic building methods, creating a dialogue between modern architecture and local heritage.

**Site Integration and Spatial Strategy**

The site selection maximizes the natural features of the volcanic landscape while mitigating ecological impact. The layout promotes a connection to the terrain, allowing visitors to engage meaningfully with the surrounding wilderness. The design includes communal areas, such as outdoor thermal baths for social interaction, alongside private sleeping pods that provide seclusion. This configuration offers diverse zones catering to both community gatherings and individual reflection, fostering a harmonious flow throughout the building.

**Material Selection and Environmental Performance**

The materials chosen for "ísHaven" are fundamental to its design ethos, emphasizing sustainability and regional relevance. The use of wooden shingles for cladding references traditional architecture while offering effective thermal insulation. Innovative 3D-printed panels facilitate unique forms that maintain structural integrity, and thermal insulated concrete flooring contributes to energy efficiency and durability in the harsh Icelandic climate. Compact gravel and insulation are employed to enhance thermal management, aligning with sustainable building practices. This careful selection results in a robust exterior that marries modern craftsmanship with cultural significance.

Overall, "ísHaven" exemplifies a commitment to thoughtful design that resonates with both its natural surroundings and the cultural landscape of Iceland.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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