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Translucent Polycarbonate Shelters with Flexible Interior for Trekking Comfort

Author:
Evano-Allinc Benoit
Translucent Polycarbonate Shelters with Flexible Interior for Trekking Comfort

Project in-detail

Utilizing polycarbonate for natural light and a modular pillow-based interior, the design transforms the trekking experience into a comfortable and adaptable retreat within Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes translucent polycarbonate sheets to enhance natural lighting and visibility.
02
Incorporates a modular pillow system for customizable living and sleeping arrangements.
03
Constructed with a lightweight steel frame for quick assembly and adaptation to varying terrains.
04
Features solar panels to provide renewable energy for off-grid sustainability.
05
Designed to harmonize with the Icelandic landscape, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor experience.

### Architectural Report: The Pillow Fort, Iceland Trekking Cabins

#### Overview

Located in Iceland, the Pillow Fort is a trekking cabin design that merges childhood nostalgia with contemporary architectural principles. Positioned within the rugged Icelandic landscape, this cabin aims to provide outdoor enthusiasts a comfortable retreat after long treks. The design emphasizes a sense of safety and imagination, with the intent to foster relaxation and community among its users.

#### Materiality and Sustainability

The materials chosen for the Pillow Fort reflect a commitment to sustainability and functionality. A lightweight steel frame ensures structural integrity and ease of transport, maintaining stability amidst the variable Icelandic climate. The inclusion of translucent polycarbonate sheets enhances natural lighting within the living space while providing durability and thermal insulation.

Uniquely, the design incorporates pillows as essential elements of both living and sleeping areas, contributing comfort and insulation that can be adjusted according to external temperatures. Furthermore, the integration of solar panels underscores an eco-conscious approach by harnessing renewable energy to meet the cabin's operational needs. The interior finishes harmonize with the surrounding environment, enhancing the experience of living in the landscape.

#### Design Flexibility and Community Interaction

The Pillow Fort features a flexible design that allows for customization in spatial configuration, adapting to different activities such as sleeping, resting, and socializing. This adaptability promotes communal living, reflected in sketches that depict shared experiences among trekkers. The aesthetic of the cabin not only captures Iceland's natural beauty but also instills a sense of warmth and playfulness, contrasting with the often harsh exterior environment.

This design positions the Pillow Fort as a progressive solution within the realm of outdoor accommodations, emphasizing creativity and community connection while respecting Iceland’s cultural heritage.

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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

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