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Transparent Conical Shelter Crafted with Steel and Timber for Immersive Nature Experiences

Authors:
Dohyeok Kwon, Jimin Oh
Transparent Conical Shelter Crafted with Steel and Timber for Immersive Nature Experiences

Project in-detail

Crafted from steel and transparent panels, the conical structure offers panoramic views while providing a communal shelter that seamlessly connects visitors to the rugged Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with modular components for easy assembly and disassembly.
02
Incorporates passive heating strategies utilizing a central fireplace for energy efficiency.
03
Features panoramic glass panels for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Utilizes sustainable materials, including cross-laminated timber for structural integrity.
05
Designed with a conical shape to enhance wind resistance and thermal performance.

### Overview

The Mývatn Hut is situated in the Mývatn region of Iceland and functions as a short-term shelter for visitors seeking refuge within a natural landscape. The design integrates traditional hut forms with modern architectural innovation, aiming to create a harmonious relationship between occupants and their surroundings. This project promotes a space for relaxation and connection, emphasizing the significance of natural light and openness in enhancing user experience.

### Architectural Form and Functionality

Characterized by its conical shape supported by a robust steel framework, the Mývatn Hut features transparent panels that provide panoramic views of the Icelandic landscape. This design approach allows for significant natural light infiltration while ensuring adequate thermal insulation and protection from harsh weather conditions. The ground floor is organized into communal areas that facilitate social interaction and relaxation, featuring a central fireplace as a focal point. The upper level complements this layout with additional spaces for rest, maintaining open sightlines throughout the structure.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materials used in the Mývatn Hut are chosen for their durability and environmental impact. The primary structural elements consist of steel framing, which provides both strength and high thermal conductivity. Transparent panels enhance visual connectivity with the outdoors, while interior wood panels create a warm atmosphere. The project emphasizes sustainability through the recyclable nature of its components and the incorporation of passive heating strategies that utilize thermal dynamics for efficient climate control. Modular design elements allow for flexible use and ease of assembly, further reinforcing the hut’s commitment to environmentally conscious practices.

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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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