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Grass-Covered Roof and Local Lava Stone Elevate Sustainable Shelter in Rugged Iceland

Authors:
Natalia Wilczak, Marek Kucinski
Grass-Covered Roof and Local Lava Stone Elevate Sustainable Shelter in Rugged Iceland

Project in-detail

A grass-covered roof and local lava stone create a seamless integration with the Icelandic landscape, providing a sustainable base for trekking enthusiasts.
5 key facts about this project
01
The cabin incorporates a grass-covered roof that enhances thermal insulation and visual integration with the landscape.
02
Local lava stones are used for structural stability and to minimize environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design maximizes interior space while reducing material use.
04
Prefabricated components facilitate efficient assembly in remote locations.
05
Large glass windows provide panoramic views and connect occupants to the natural environment.

### Project Overview

Located within the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the cabin is designed to facilitate human habitation while complementing the surrounding environment. The primary intent is to serve as a base for trekking enthusiasts, embodying a functional yet aesthetic approach to rural living. The structure features an elevated form characterized by an equilateral triangle geometry, emphasizing clarity of design and a respectful engagement with the landscape.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The construction utilizes a diverse array of materials selected for their performance, sustainability, and connection to the local context. Wood serves as the primary material for the framework and interior finishes, imparting warmth and a natural aesthetic. Local lava stones provide thermal mass and stability, enhancing insulation and grounding the cabin in Iceland's geological context. The green roofing system incorporates grass, which not only insulates but also helps the structure blend into the hilly terrain. Expansive glass windows allow natural light to enrich interior spaces and frame views of the surrounding environment, reinforcing a direct relationship with nature.

### Functional Layout and User Experience

The cabin's layout is strategically organized to cater to the needs of its occupants. It features distinct zones for dining and social interaction, encouraging community among trekkers in an open-plan lounge and kitchen area. Private sleeping quarters provide individual privacy while maintaining a coherent spatial arrangement. Essential facilities, including bathrooms and storage, are thoughtfully positioned to maximize accessibility within a compact footprint. This layout facilitates efficient use of space, promoting a practical yet enjoyable user experience with optimal functionality.

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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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