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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

Project in-detail

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.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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