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Natural Stone Facade and Reinforced Concrete Vertical Shelter Designed for Trekkers

Authors:
Ivan Bekavac, Miroslav Posavec
Natural Stone Facade and Reinforced Concrete Vertical Shelter Designed for Trekkers

Project in-detail

Incorporating a natural stone facade and reinforced concrete structure, this vertical shelter provides a modular habitat for trekkers while harmonizing with the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic design incorporates a combination of natural stone and reinforced concrete for structural integrity.
02
Modular habitation units enable flexible configuration and easy relocation for maintenance.
03
Large glass windows enhance natural light while providing panoramic views of Iceland's landscape.
04
Sustainable systems include rainwater collection and thermal heat pumps for energy efficiency.
05
Inspired by historical stone cairns, the structure serves as a modern navigation marker for trekkers.

### Project Overview
Located within Iceland’s diverse landscape, "The Guardians" design aims to serve as both a shelter for trekkers and a cultural reference, drawing inspiration from the country’s Viking heritage and the ancient stone cairns used for navigation. The project seeks to integrate this historical context with a modern architectural approach, creating a landmark that acknowledges the rugged beauty of its surroundings while fulfilling functional needs.

### Structure and Materials
The design features a monolithic stone structure that resembles a standing stone, containing a hollow interior for modular habitation units. This vertical organization not only enhances visibility but also facilitates adaptability to varied environmental conditions. The choice of materials is integral to the project, emphasizing durability and aesthetic alignment with the natural landscape. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity, while glass windows provide expansive views. Steel is utilized for internal frameworks and railings, and natural stone forms the external façade, reinforcing the connection to the environment.

### Sustainability and User Experience
Incorporating sustainable design principles, each habitation unit is equipped with self-sufficient features, such as thermal heat pumps, rainwater collection systems, and ample natural lighting. The interior layout comprises communal spaces on the ground floor, including kitchens and bathrooms, while private sleeping areas occupy the upper levels, complete with access to viewing platforms. The modular design of the units allows for flexibility in configuration and easy maintenance, thereby enhancing user engagement and experience. Positioned amid Iceland’s striking topography, the project both harmonizes with and accentuates the surrounding landscape, making it a noteworthy addition to the area.

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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

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