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Geothermal Shelter with Lightweight Steel Frame and Self-Sufficient Features

Authors:
Marco Duthie, Barry Copeland, Franklin Mwanza, Tuhiena Bhaumik
Geothermal Shelter with Lightweight Steel Frame and Self-Sufficient Features

Project in-detail

Constructed with lightweight steel and super-insulated panels, this self-sufficient shelter is designed to harmonize with Iceland's rugged terrain while providing a functional base for outdoor adventurers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with super-insulated sandwich panels for optimal thermal efficiency.
02
Integrates a geothermal heating system to maintain comfortable indoor temperatures.
03
Features a modular design that allows for flexible configurations based on user needs.
04
Utilizes a portable gas system for cooking and energy requirements.
05
Incorporates large windows to frame scenic views while enhancing natural light.

## Overview
Located in Iceland’s dynamic terrain, the Ice Pod is designed as a lightweight and sustainable accommodation for trekkers and adventurers. The structure draws inspiration from natural landforms, particularly icebergs, with a form that minimizes environmental impact while prioritizing usability and comfort. The design integrates seamlessly into the landscape, offering a functional refuge for those exploring the rugged Icelandic wilderness.

## Spatial Organization
The Ice Pod features a compact layout of approximately 60 square meters, strategically organized to enhance both communal and private experiences. The central living space is versatile, accommodating various activities with adaptable furniture options, including customizable sleeping platforms and storage solutions. The kitchen area is equipped with essential amenities and designed to utilize drone-delivered gas supplies. Sleeping quarters provide comfort and expansive views of the surroundings through integrated hammocks and platforms, fostering a close connection to the natural environment.

## Material and Technological Integration
Emphasizing lightweight yet durable materials, the Ice Pod utilizes super-insulated sandwich panels for thermal efficiency, a lightweight steel frame for structural integrity, and engineered wood for interior surfaces, which introduce warmth into the design. Advanced technology is integral to the project, featuring renewable energy systems, including geothermal energy and rainwater collection, to ensure a self-sufficient operation. Smart cabin technology allows for user connectivity and resource management via an app interface. Moreover, the design's modularity permits the addition or removal of units to accommodate varying group sizes and purposes, aligning with sustainable practices and reducing waste.

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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
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