Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Hexagonal Retreat Crafted In Cross-Laminated Timber Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles

Author:
Finn Xu
Hexagonal Retreat Crafted In Cross-Laminated Timber Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles

Project in-detail

Constructed with cross-laminated timber and charred wooden shingles, the hexagonal cabin seamlessly integrates sustainable materials with its coastal Icelandic setting to provide a multifunctional retreat for travelers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced strength and efficiency.
02
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes spatial versatility and structural integrity.
04
Incorporates a central ridge sunroof to maximize natural light throughout the interior.
05
Designed to integrate seamlessly with the coastal Icelandic landscape through modular flexibility.

### Overview
The trekking cabin is strategically located in Arnarstapi on the Snæfellsnes Peninsula, Iceland. Designed to withstand the region's unique climatic conditions, the cabin combines modern architectural techniques with sustainable principles. The project aims to create a functional living space that integrates with the surrounding landscape, facilitating a deeper connection to the natural environment.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout
The cabin features a hexagonal floor plan, enhancing spatial efficiency and allowing for flexible interior arrangements. The central living area is flanked by a kitchen and three bedrooms, collectively accommodating up to ten occupants. This layout reflects an emphasis on group functionality, ensuring comfort while facilitating community-oriented interactions among travelers. Additionally, a central ridge sunroof provides natural illumination throughout the interior, addressing the demands of extended periods of low light during winter months.

### Materiality and Sustainability
Construction materials were selected for their resilience and environmental sustainability. The exterior likely consists of treated wood or fiber cement, chosen for their durability against harsh weather conditions. Large, double-insulated glass elements optimize thermal performance while offering unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape. A wind turbine is integrated into the design to provide renewable energy, underscoring the project’s commitment to minimizing ecological impact while maximizing resource efficiency. The modular design allows for adaptability over time, with potential for future expansions based on user needs.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy