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Harvesting Natural Light Through Thermal Straw Bale Construction in a Nordic Landscape

Authors:
Tiago Cabral, Vanessa Pereira
Harvesting Natural Light Through Thermal Straw Bale Construction in a Nordic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with thermal straw bale walls and strategic window placements, the design optimizes energy efficiency while framing views of the aurora borealis, serving as a sustainable retreat in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with thermal straw bale walls to enhance energy efficiency.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance.
03
Incorporates large windows strategically placed for optimal views of the aurora.
04
Features interconnected volumes to promote communal interaction while ensuring privacy.
05
Employs rainwater harvesting systems for sustainable resource management.

### Overview

Located in Iceland's striking natural landscape, the design prioritizes the interaction between architecture and the surrounding environment, aiming to create an experience that is both functional and aesthetically aligned with the unique cultural and geographical context. The project reflects a commitment to harmonizing the built environment with its unspoiled surroundings while fostering a high-quality experience for its users.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The architectural organization features multiple interconnected wooden volumes linked by an underground corridor, facilitating both privacy and community engagement. This design approach not only promotes interaction among occupants but also respects individual needs for personal space, reflecting a modern interpretation of communal living. The spatial layout includes designated areas for social activities, such as a lobby and dining area, as well as private zones to cater to diverse user preferences.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices for the project are carefully considered to meet the demands of Iceland's challenging climate while promoting sustainability. The façade comprises dark wooden elements, providing a striking visual link to the landscape and enhancing durability. Concrete walls, combined with eco-friendly straw bale materials, ensure structural stability and exceptional thermal performance. Additionally, prefabricated straw bale wall panels streamline construction processes while adhering to sustainability principles. The inclusion of advanced water collection and energy generation systems further emphasizes the project’s dedication to ecological responsibility, addressing environmental concerns while enriching the user experience.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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