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Rusted Steel Cladding and Geothermal Heating in a Nordic Cabin for Outdoor Recreation

Authors:
Robert William Guyt, Jennifer Mclinko
Rusted Steel Cladding and Geothermal Heating in a Nordic Cabin for Outdoor Recreation

Project in-detail

Rusted steel cladding and a geothermal heating system define a small cabin designed for outdoor recreation, seamlessly integrating with the Icelandic landscape while providing essential shelter for adventurers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rusted steel siding naturally weathers to blend with the surrounding terrain.
02
Geothermal heating systems provide efficient warmth without reliance on traditional energy sources.
03
An angular roof design enhances snow shedding and maximizes sunlight capture.
04
Native stone and wood in the interior create a warm, inviting atmosphere.
05
Dedicated changing and equipment storage areas improve usability for outdoor activities.

### Project Overview

The Iceland Snow Cabin is situated in the Icelandic landscape, designed to integrate with its natural surroundings while prioritizing sustainability and user functionality. Drawing inspiration from the Arctic Tern and the region's geothermal energy, the design aims to offer a refuge for outdoor enthusiasts, ensuring minimal disruption to the environment.

### Structural Integrations

The cabin features a dynamic angular roof that enhances both shelter and natural light penetration, creating an inviting interior space. Its positioning provides open vistas towards the surrounding slopes, fostering a strong connection between users and the landscape. Exterior materials include panelized metal for roofing and cladding to withstand Iceland's weather conditions, along with weathering rusty steel siding that mirrors the local terrain’s colors. The interior incorporates native stone and wood planking to create a warm ambiance, while board-formed concrete adds thermal mass to enhance energy efficiency.

### Sustainable Heating Solutions

Two geothermal heating systems, resembling traditional fireplaces, are integrated into the design, utilizing local geothermal resources to provide warmth through a system of hot water pipes. This approach minimizes ecological impact and aligns with sustainable practices. Additionally, the cabin’s construction emphasizes optimal insulation and features large glass windows that connect indoor spaces with the exterior environment, reinforcing its energy-efficient design. The layout accommodates diverse user needs with dedicated areas for changing, dining, and equipment management, while a viewing deck offers an opportunity to engage with the stunning landscape.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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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