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Hexagonal Cabins Featuring Climate-Resilient PVC and Renewable Energy Solutions

Authors:
Diana Martin-ioja, Ioana Suceava
Hexagonal Cabins Featuring Climate-Resilient PVC and Renewable Energy Solutions
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Constructed with hexagonal modules and durable PVC panels, these sustainable cabins harness renewable energy sources to provide flexible accommodation for trekkers in Iceland's harsh landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from hexagonal modules, allowing flexible configurations for varying group sizes.
02
Exterior utilizes durable PVC panels designed for weather resilience in harsh climates.
03
Integrated rainwater collection systems enhance sustainability and resource management.
04
Equipped with wind turbines and photovoltaic panels for self-sufficient energy generation.
05
Designed to mimic natural geological forms, blending seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape.

### Project Overview
The Metamorphic Icelandic Trekking Cabins are strategically designed to support trekkers in the varied terrains of Iceland. Located within a diverse ecological context, the project aims to meet the needs of outdoor enthusiasts while maintaining a respectful integration with the natural landscape. The design prioritizes modularity, allowing for adaptable configurations that accommodate different group sizes and functions, thus enhancing user experience in remote locations.

### Spatial Configuration and Materiality
The cabins utilize a hexagonal modular arrangement that mirrors the structural characteristics of Iceland's basalt columns, ensuring both stability and aesthetic coherence with local geological features. Each unit can be configured to house between two and ten occupants, with designated areas for sleeping, living, and essential services. The interior is constructed primarily from sustainable wood, providing a warm atmosphere, while the exterior is fortified with PVC panels to withstand harsh weather conditions. Additional insulation layers enhance thermal efficiency, ensuring a comfortable environment year-round.

### Energy Efficiency and Sustainability
A commitment to sustainability is evident in the incorporation of advanced energy technologies. The cabins feature OLED panels and photovoltaic systems that harness both solar and wind energy, achieving a self-sufficient energy model suitable for remote settings. The innovative design allows for flexible adjustment of solar panels based on sunlight angles, optimizing energy capture. Furthermore, rainwater collection systems, supported by decorative downs and storage containers, enhance resource efficiency while aiding in structural stability against high winds. This comprehensive approach to energy management underscores the project's emphasis on ecological responsibility.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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