Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Telescopic Stone Façade with Geothermal Systems Enhances Icelandic Cabin Experience

Authors:
Osman Hacioglu, Nurdan Karagunlu, Tarik Keskin, Fatos Basaran
Telescopic Stone Façade with Geothermal Systems Enhances Icelandic Cabin Experience
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
A telescopic structure clad in a durable stone façade and powered by geothermal systems provides a flexible retreat designed to blend seamlessly with the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Telescopic design allows for height adjustments based on topography and user needs.
02
Exterior features locally sourced stone panels for durability and thermal performance.
03
Geothermal systems provide efficient heating, minimizing reliance on non-renewable energy.
04
Rainwater harvesting systems support self-sufficiency in water management.
05
Interior layouts utilize flexible, multi-functional spaces to accommodate various activities.

### Teleskála Cabin: Project Overview

The Teleskála cabin is situated in the rugged landscape of Iceland, designed as a functional retreat that reflects the region’s cultural heritage and natural beauty. The project integrates sustainable practices with modern architectural elements, aiming to provide visitors with a comfortable experience while promoting environmental stewardship. The design responds to Iceland's unique climatic challenges, ensuring adaptability and resilience in the face of varying weather conditions.

#### Spatial Configuration and Structural Innovation

Central to the design is the cabin’s telescopic structure, which allows for vertical adjustments according to topographical variations. This adaptability distinguishes the Teleskála from conventional cabins, providing a versatile living environment that can accommodate different user requirements. The layout incorporates retractable elements that enhance usability in diverse climatic scenarios, fostering an intuitive spatial experience.

#### Material Selection and Sustainability Practices

Materiality plays a critical role in the architectural integrity of the Teleskála cabin. The exterior features durable stone façade panels that echo the local geology and provide insulation. Inside, locally sourced timber offers warmth and aesthetic appeal, while ensuring sustainability through responsible sourcing. Structural components utilize painted metal sheets for robustness and protection against harsh weather conditions. The cabin harnesses geothermal energy, implements a rainwater harvesting system, and incorporates small wind turbines, emphasizing a commitment to energy efficiency and environmental responsibility.

Interior spaces are designed for flexibility, including multi-functional furniture and strategic placements of skylights and windows to maximize natural light and ventilation. Communal areas encourage engagement among visitors while facilitating a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape. Access considerations are integral to the design, ensuring transportability to remote locations and stability across diverse terrains.

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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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