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Pyramid Roof Structure Clad in Glass Panels and Wood Achieves Flexible Accommodation in Iceland's Landscape

Author:
Anna Makaikina
Pyramid Roof Structure Clad in Glass Panels and Wood Achieves Flexible Accommodation in Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

Clad in expansive glass panels and characterized by a distinctive pyramid roof, the design facilitates flexible guest accommodations that harmonize with Iceland's stunning natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clad in charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Features a pentagonal layout to optimize guest interactions and space utilization.
03
Incorporates movable wall panels, allowing for flexible room configurations.
04
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views of the Northern Lights.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roof for sustainable energy use.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, this project is designed to provide a unique accommodation experience for guests wanting to witness the Northern Lights. The conceptual framework emphasizes functionality, scalability, and a respectful integration with the natural surroundings. The facility's layout consists of a pentagonal main building complemented by expandable side rooms, allowing for flexibility in guest accommodations based on seasonal demand.

### Spatial Organization

The main building serves multiple functions, including a reception area that welcomes guests, dining and lounge zones designed for varying group sizes, and auxiliary spaces that support operational needs (such as technical rooms, a sauna, and storage facilities). Expandable rooms are positioned along the periphery of the main structure and utilize sliding wall panels to adjust their sizes. This adaptability enhances the space during peak occupancy periods. The second floor is dedicated to premium guest accommodations, featuring expansive views of the Icelandic landscape through large glass panels integrated into a pyramid roof structure, ensuring an immersive experience with the surrounding environment. The outdoor spaces encompass expansive lawns, parking, and pathways that encourage engagement with the natural vistas.

### Material Selection

The material palette has been deliberately chosen to align with the landscape while promoting sustainability and comfort. Wood is utilized for both structural elements and interior finishes, providing warmth and a connection to the environment. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural light and encourages transparency, fostering a connection between interior and exterior spaces. Metal roofing enhances durability and protection from harsh weather, while composite decking offers a resilient outdoor area designed for enjoyment in varying conditions. These selections collectively emphasize sustainable practices and harmonization with the natural context.

### Innovative Design Elements

Flexibility is a hallmark of the design, allowing each expandable room to adjust in size through movable wall panels, thus optimizing operational efficiency. Environmental considerations include skylights integrated into the roof extensions of the expandable rooms, which maximize natural light and reduce energy use. Furthermore, solar panels are installed on the ground floor roof, strategically positioned to preserve views while contributing to the project's sustainability goals.

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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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