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Turf Roofed Retreat Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber and Local Stone

Authors:
Carlo Sguassero, Marco Malisan
Turf Roofed Retreat Constructed with Cross-Laminated Timber and Local Stone
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Constructed with cross-laminated timber and nestled beneath a grass roof, this shelter integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, providing a functional retreat for trekkers seeking comfort in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced stone, enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
Employs a unique bent A-frame design to optimize structural stability.
03
Incorporates grass roofs that blend seamlessly with the natural surroundings.
04
Features photovoltaic panels for renewable energy generation.
05
Modular design allows for easy transport and assembly in remote locations.

### Turf Cabin Project Overview

Located in the rugged landscapes of Iceland, the Turf Cabin project reflects an innovative approach to architectural design that aligns traditional elements with contemporary functionality. Designed to serve as a refuge for trekkers, the cabins incorporate characteristics of traditional Icelandic turf houses, such as earth-sheltered forms and green roofs, while introducing a modular and angular design that interacts dynamically with the surrounding topography.

### Spatial Configuration and Structure

The design comprises triangular units that delineate essential areas—storage and toilet, a combined kitchen and living room, and shower and sleeping areas. This configuration facilitates compact living spaces tailored to the needs of travelers. Each cabin's modular framework allows for easy transport and assembly, catering to remote locations. The architectural silhouette features sharp angles and a dynamic roofline, mirroring the mountainous terrain and enhancing visual engagement with the landscape.

### Material and Sustainability Features

The construction employs cross-laminated timber (X-Lam) for structural stability, complemented by local stone cladding that enhances thermal efficiency while integrating the buildings into their environment. The grass roofs, a nod to traditional Icelandic architecture, provide insulation and minimize visual impact. Sustainable technologies, including photovoltaic systems for renewable energy, geothermal heating, and rainwater collection initiatives, underscore a commitment to ecological responsibility and energy efficiency. Expansive glass panels enhance natural lighting and ventilation, connecting users with the surrounding scenery while creating an inviting atmosphere.

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Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
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    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge

AIA (American Institute of Architects) invites you to design affordable housing in Denver

Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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Prize Monetary award
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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025
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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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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 October 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025
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Final registration deadline 13 November 2025
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Final registration deadline 27 November 2025

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