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Moveable Façade and Corrugated Steel Shelters Designed for Iceland's Harsh Landscape

Author:
Senem Buse Albay
Moveable Façade and Corrugated Steel Shelters Designed for Iceland's Harsh Landscape
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With a moveable façade crafted from corrugated steel, this sustainable shelter adapts to Iceland's extreme weather while providing hikers with comfortable accommodation in a remote landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted from corrugated steel, the exterior provides durability while blending with the volcanic landscape.
02
The moveable façade allows for spatial adaptability in response to changing weather conditions.
03
Equipped with rainwater harvesting systems, enhancing self-sufficiency for remote users.
04
Sustainable energy is harnessed through strategically placed solar panels on the sloped roof.
05
Interior spaces utilize wood finishes, creating a warm, inviting atmosphere in an industrial shell.

## Project Overview

Located in the rugged terrain of Iceland, the Trekking Cabins project seeks to harmonize traditional architectural principles with contemporary needs, addressing the challenges posed by the region's extreme climatic conditions. This design provides a functional and sustainable retreat for users engaged in outdoor exploration, integrating historical architectural elements with practical modern features to create resilient living spaces.

### Adaptive Design Strategy

The project emphasizes adaptability in response to Iceland’s variable landscapes, characterized by harsh weather and varying environmental demands. The cabins utilize a modular approach, allowing for dynamic expansion and contraction throughout the seasons. This design reflects the historical practices of early settlers who adapted their living spaces to the local climate while providing a modern solution for today’s adventurers.

### Structural and Material Specifications

The cabins are composed of a compact, box-like form, optimized for thermal efficiency and minimal environmental impact. Key features include:

- **Movable Surfaces:** Mechanical elements that enable the structure to adjust to weather conditions, enhancing user interaction with the environment.
- **Sloped Roofs:** Designed to manage snow loads while integrating solar panels for energy generation and systems for rainwater harvesting, promoting sustainability.

The selected material palette consists of durable elements suited to the landscape:

- **Black Corrugated Steel:** Serving as the primary exterior cladding, this material offers longevity and insulation while allowing the cabins to blend into their volcanic surroundings.
- **Glass:** Strategically incorporated to maximize natural light and provide unobstructed views, fostering a strong connection to the outdoors.
- **Wood:** Used internally to introduce warmth and comfort, contrasting with the exterior's industrial quality.

### Spatial Configuration and Amenities

The internal layout prioritizes functionality and user comfort. Key organizational elements include:

- **Entry and Storage Areas:** Designed for efficient organization of hiking equipment and including spaces for technical gear, supporting sustainability.
- **Common Amenities:** Facilities such as kitchens, bathrooms, and shared dining areas enhance comfort and promote community among users.
- **Flexible Space Utilization:** The design permits expansion as necessary, adapting to varying user requirements and enhancing the living experience.

### Sustainability Measures

Commitments to ecological responsibility are evident throughout the design, characterized by:

- **Energy Generation:** The integration of solar panels allows for self-sufficient energy use, reducing reliance on nonrenewable resources.
- **Water Management:** Innovative rainwater harvesting systems reduce the environmental footprint, ensuring that the cabins provide for users' needs while preserving local resources.

These attributes position the Trekking Cabins as not only innovative architectural solutions but also as practical responses to the demands of their unique environment.

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Enter an open architecture
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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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