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Titanium Shielded Cabin with Magnetrine Foundation Overlooking Icelandic Wilderness

Authors:
David Fenster, Shahab Ahghari, Andy Brandt
Titanium Shielded Cabin with Magnetrine Foundation Overlooking Icelandic Wilderness

Project in-detail

Elevated on a Magnetrine foundation and protected by a titanium shell, the cabin harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape while providing a sustainable living space for its occupants.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes ecological impact with a Magnetrine foundation.
02
Exterior features a protective titanium shell for durability and modern aesthetics.
03
Interior layout combines functionality with maximizing natural light.
04
Solar panels generate renewable energy tailored for sustainability.
05
Lawn roof design blends cabin with the surrounding Icelandic landscape.

The design showcases a cabin positioned near a serene lake, focusing on the relationship between the structure and its natural setting. This cabin serves as a living space that blends modern functionality with environmental sustainability. A Magnetrine spike foundation elevates the building above the ground, contributing to a minimal ecological footprint while allowing for easy disassembly if relocation is required.

Foundation and Structure

The Magnetrine spike foundation is a key feature of the design, reducing the overall footprint of the cabin. The main shelter is covered with a protective titanium plate, which enhances durability and adds a contemporary look. This choice of material ensures that the cabin maintains its integrity over time and makes a thoughtful statement about its environmental impact.

Interior Configuration

The interior layout of the cabin is designed for practicality and comfort. The bathroom and kitchen core are located on the south face, making them easily accessible. Accoya-clad shelves and benches are positioned to maximize natural light, as they face east-west. This careful planning creates a welcoming atmosphere, while the built-in bed on the north side offers soothing views of the surrounding landscape.

Sustainable Energy Solutions

Renewable energy features prominently in the design. Four solar panels generate 5 kWh of power, providing the cabin with a sustainable energy source. This integration of solar energy reflects a commitment to environmentally friendly practices. The north face includes a folding glass system that opens to the sky, allowing residents to take in the sights of the Aurora Borealis, thus enhancing their connection to the natural world.

Community and Context

The layout includes a central community building that serves as a gathering space, surrounded by several cabins. This design encourages both privacy and social interaction among residents. Visitors experience a carefully planned entry that highlights the natural beauty of the area, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and the landscape.

The cabin embodies contemporary architectural practice, with attention paid to details that create a functional and visually appealing space. The lawn roof provides insulation and blends the structure into its surroundings, offering occupants a peaceful retreat that resonates with the environment.

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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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