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Radiant Heating and Green Roofs in Locally-Sourced Stone Cabins Embracing Icelandic Wilderness

Author:
Praxiteles Lykos
Radiant Heating and Green Roofs in Locally-Sourced Stone Cabins Embracing Icelandic Wilderness

Project in-detail

Emphasizing locally-sourced stone and sustainable practices, the design integrates radiant heating and green roofs to create a collection of cabins that harmoniously connect with the Icelandic landscape for residential retreat.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cabins utilize locally-sourced stone to enhance durability and integrate with the landscape.
02
Design incorporates green roofs to promote insulation and support local biodiversity.
03
Radiant heating systems leverage Iceland's geothermal resources for efficient energy use.
04
Extensive use of glass ensures panoramic views, connecting interiors with the natural environment.
05
The layout maximizes privacy while encouraging community interaction through shared spaces.

## Analytical Report on Casa Obscura

### Project Overview
Casa Obscura is situated in Iceland, designed to facilitate an immersive interaction between inhabitants and the surrounding landscape. Inspired by the principles of the camera obscura, the project takes a conceptual approach that reinterprets conventional architectural forms. It aims to harmonize with the natural environment, allowing for a deeper observation and engagement with the unique characteristics of the Icelandic wilderness.

### Spatial Organization
The design features a radial configuration of stone cabins, strategically arranged to provide unobstructed views of the landscape. Areas are divided into private retreats and communal spaces, promoting both individual relaxation and social interaction. Bedrooms oriented to the north enable residents to experience dynamic views, including the northern lights. The central communal area serves as a focal point for gatherings, balancing openness with the need for privacy. The layout also incorporates flexible accommodations and a stable for horses, supporting diverse uses while maintaining functional integrity.

### Materiality and Sustainability
The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and a deep connection to the rugged Icelandic environment. Stone is used for its durability and aesthetic resonance with local geology, while dark wooden shutters enhance both visual appeal and performance. Green roofs serve multiple purposes, such as improving insulation and enabling rainwater collection, fostering biodiversity within the ecosystem. The extensive use of glass in the design ensures transparency and a strong connection to the natural surroundings, while a geothermal heating system leverages Iceland's geothermal resources to promote energy efficiency and environmental responsibility. Each design element collectively emphasizes an ecological approach while enhancing the user experience through thoughtful interactions with nature.

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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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