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Repurposed Shipping Containers Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions for Sustainable Trekking Lodging

Author:
Christine Wagner
Repurposed Shipping Containers Integrating Renewable Energy Solutions for Sustainable Trekking Lodging

Project in-detail

Utilizing repurposed shipping containers, the design integrates wind energy systems and compost toilets to create sustainable accommodations for trekking enthusiasts in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes repurposed shipping containers to minimize environmental impact.
02
Integrates wind turbines for renewable energy use on-site.
03
Employs compost toilets for sustainable waste management.
04
Features modular construction for flexibility in site placement.
05
Designed to blend seamlessly with the Icelandic landscape and terrain.

### Project Overview
The "TRAVELLERS" project involves the development of a series of trekking cabins tailored for the conditions faced by hikers and backpackers in Iceland. Designed to meet the increasing demand for sustainable lodging in remote natural settings, the initiative prioritizes ecological considerations while integrating accommodation solutions within the landscape. The project features three types of cabins—bivouacs, shelters, and resorts—to cater to varying group sizes and requirements.

### Spatial Strategy and Layout
The cabins are organized to optimize spatial efficiency and user experience. Bivouac cabins are designed to accommodate up to four occupants, featuring essential sleeping and sanitation facilities in a compact format. The shelters, which offer more extensive amenities for cooking and recreation, are suited for groups of up to six individuals, while resorts provide the most comprehensive accommodations for larger groups, including private rooms and communal areas. Such layouts encourage social interaction and communal living while remaining aligned with the natural terrain of Iceland, effectively minimizing environmental impact.

### Materiality and Sustainability
A key aspect of the design is the utilization of repurposed shipping containers as the primary building material, which significantly reduces construction waste and ecological footprint. The inclusion of cold water reservoirs, renewable energy systems such as wind generators, and sustainable wood for interior finishes exemplifies a commitment to resource efficiency. Additionally, the cabins feature natural waste management solutions, such as compost toilets, and energy-efficient appliances that support low-impact living. This modular approach enables easy assembly and disassembly, enhancing the adaptability of the cabins to their remote settings while preserving the surrounding landscape.

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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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