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Grass-Covered Roof Blending with Icelandic Terrain Constructed Using Local Timber

Author:
titinart Thumchuchaorat
Grass-Covered Roof Blending with Icelandic Terrain Constructed Using Local Timber

Project in-detail

Camouflaged by a grass-covered roof and constructed from local timber, this residence seamlessly integrates into the rugged Icelandic landscape, serving as a sustainable retreat for its inhabitants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced timber, enhancing environmental responsibility.
02
Incorporates a grass-covered roof for natural insulation and visual integration.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes snow shedding and structural stability.
04
Utilizes translucent solar cell glass to maximize light while generating energy.
05
Organized with communal and private spaces to promote both interaction and solitude.

## Project Overview

The Camouflage Cabin is located in Iceland, designed to integrate within its dramatic natural landscape. This project prioritizes the relationship between architecture and nature, aiming to create a human dwelling that respects and resonates with its surroundings. The design emphasizes sustainability while providing a comfortable refuge for its occupants.

## Spatial Organization

The cabin features two distinct levels organized to promote both communal interaction and individual privacy. The first floor includes a communal area, bathroom, changing/shower room, and a shared kitchen, encouraging social engagement among residents. In contrast, the second floor is dedicated to bedrooms, allowing occupants solitude and expansive views of the landscape. Large windows are strategically placed to enhance the connection with the outdoors, while an interior courtyard fosters communal interaction while protecting against harsh weather.

## Materials and Environmental Integration

An array of carefully selected materials supports the cabin's aesthetic and functional requirements. A grass roof offers natural insulation and enhances visual camouflage, while local timber is used for interior finishes, contributing warmth to the interiors. Steel framing provides necessary structural integrity in the face of Iceland's weather challenges, and translucent solar cell glass allows for natural light and contributes to energy efficiency. The inclusion of a stone foundation integrates the structure with the rocky terrain, reinforcing its environmental sensitivity. This design minimizes visual and physical impacts on the landscape, promoting biodiversity and showcasing a modern interpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture through its use of vernacular elements and sustainable practices.

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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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