Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Suspended Spaces Crafted From Natural Timber With Geothermal Heating Solutions in a Remote Wilderness Retreat

Authors:
Sam Bertram, Laura Binazzi
Suspended Spaces Crafted From Natural Timber With Geothermal Heating Solutions in a Remote Wilderness Retreat

Project in-detail

Crafted from suspended natural timber and integrated with geothermal heating, this wilderness retreat provides a sustainable refuge for trekkers seeking comfort and safety in Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with suspended sleeping platforms to maximize space efficiency.
02
Incorporates a self-sufficient water-harvesting system for sustainable resource management.
03
Utilizes geothermal heating for energy efficiency and comfort in varying climates.
04
Features charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability against the elements.
05
Designed with buffer zones to promote privacy and ease of movement between modules.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the Slow Cabin design project serves as a refuge for trekkers traversing the challenging terrain of the region. The project is driven by a commitment to ensuring safety, comfort, and functionality in a harsh environment while facilitating a restorative experience for its occupants. The design integrates seamlessly with the natural landscape, drawing inspiration from the surrounding elements to provide essential services for transient individuals.

### Design and Spatial Strategy

The layout of the Slow Cabin is organized into five functional modules: Shelter, Water/Food, Heat, Rest, and Hygiene. Each module addresses specific human needs, prioritizing user experience in a remote setting. The shelter comprises a rustic wooden structure that provides insulation while fostering a warm atmosphere, utilizing locally sourced materials. The Water/Food section incorporates a kitchenette and water collection mechanisms that harness local resources, emphasizing sustainability. Geothermal heating is incorporated as a vital design element, serving both functional and aesthetic roles through exposed thermal pipes.

The sleeping quarters employ suspended platforms that maximize vertical space and storage availability, allowing for flexible occupancy arrangements. The hygiene facilities utilize composting toilets to minimize water usage while maintaining sanitation. By optimizing layout and functionality, the design encourages communal spaces that promote interaction among travelers.

### Material Choices

The material selection underscores a commitment to sustainability and environmental integration. Key components include:

- **Wood**: Serving as the primary structural material, it provides both insulation and an organic aesthetic.
- **Geothermal Heating Elements**: These durable thermal pipes feature an industrial design that contributes to the cabin's interior atmosphere.
- **Composting Toilets**: Constructed with sustainable materials, these systems are designed to reduce ecological impact.
- **Concrete**: Utilized in flooring and structural elements for durability against the Icelandic climate.
- **Glass**: Incorporated in windows to maximize natural light and views of the landscape.

The thoughtful material choices and innovative spatial strategies contribute to a cohesive design that meets the practical needs of occupants while aligning with ecological principles.

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