Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Structural Harmony of Aluminum and Glass in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Authors:
Hélène Lacombe, Sophie Lambotte, Delphine Lewandowski, Paul-Antoine Lucas
Structural Harmony of Aluminum and Glass in a Sustainable Mountain Retreat

Project in-detail

Utilizing a modular structure of aluminum and extensive glass surfaces, the design integrates sustainable practices within a compact footprint, creating an efficient retreat for trekkers in Iceland's wilderness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes a modular design to optimize space and functionality within a compact footprint.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system to achieve self-sufficiency in water management.
03
Features extensive glass surfaces to enhance natural lighting and outdoor connectivity.
04
Constructed with a combination of aluminum and concrete to ensure durability and minimal maintenance.
05
Designed with communal spaces that foster social interaction among visitors.

### Project Overview

Located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the Lighthouse trekking cabin is designed as a sustainable and minimalistic structure aimed at providing accommodation for trekkers. The project emphasizes ecological harmony and responds to the unique geographical challenges of the area by targeting a compact footprint that maximizes habitable volume.

### Spatial Configuration

The cabin features a modular design consisting of six vertical stories, accommodating ten guests. Each floor is thoughtfully organized to fulfill specific functions, seamlessly integrating communal spaces with private retreats. This multi-layered spatial arrangement allows for both solitude and interaction, facilitating a versatile living experience tailored to the needs of its occupants. The rhythmic organization around structural columns further enhances the functionality of the space, promoting an efficient and user-friendly environment.

### Material and Sustainability Strategy

The choice of materials reflects a commitment to both structural integrity and ecological responsibility. The main structure incorporates aluminum for its lightweight and recyclable properties, while concrete serves as a stable base for the upper modular sections. Generous use of glass enhances the connection between the interior and the surrounding landscapes, providing visual continuity. Sustainable insulation materials are employed to optimize energy efficiency.

In terms of sustainability, the cabin integrates renewable energy sources, including a rapeseed oil co-generator and photovoltaic solar panels, supporting a self-sufficient energy system. Water management techniques, such as rainwater harvesting and an efficient purification system, are designed to minimize external dependency. Additionally, the project anticipates waste recycling solutions for both organic materials and wastewater, showcasing a holistic approach to environmental stewardship. The adaptable structure can also adjust to various terrains, ensuring stability while maintaining its minimal ecological footprint.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy