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Turf Roofs and Aluminum Cladding in Sustainable Cabin Design for Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Christian Newman, Bethany Long
Turf Roofs and Aluminum Cladding in Sustainable Cabin Design for Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

Utilizing turf roofs and aluminum cladding, the design seamlessly integrates with Iceland's landscape while providing sustainable accommodation for tourists exploring the region's unique geological features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Prefabricated modular units allow flexible configurations for various terrains.
02
Turf roofs provide natural insulation and blend seamlessly with the landscape.
03
Aluminum cladding ensures durability against harsh weather conditions.
04
Radiant heating systems enhance thermal comfort in extreme climates.
05
Integrated data collection supports geothermal environmental monitoring.

## Overview
HVAR SKÁLA is a prefabricated cabin system situated in Iceland, designed to enhance responsible tourism by integrating modern design practices with the preservation of the region's geological and topographical features. The project seeks to address the rising demand for tourist accommodations while ensuring that the natural landscape remains protected, creating a harmonious relationship between visitors and the environment.

### Architectural Form
The design utilizes modular, pre-fabricated units that can be arranged in various configurations, aligning with the diverse terrains across Iceland. The structure's angular forms contrast with the organic lines of the surrounding hills and valleys, while its elevated design minimizes ground disturbance. By providing panoramic views, the layout enhances the immersive experience for users, allowing them to engage with the stunning landscape.

### Sustainable Materiality
HVAR SKÁLA employs a selection of sustainable materials that emphasize durability and energy efficiency. The exterior cladding is comprised of weather-resistant aluminum, while the interior features birch plywood to provide warmth. Roofs made from Icelandic turf offer natural insulation, and thermally coated polycarbonate glazing allows for transparency and weather protection. Reinforced concrete ensures structural integrity. Collectively, these materials support the project's ecological objectives by minimizing environmental disruption and optimizing resource use. Additionally, features such as geothermal battery storage contribute to the cabins' self-sufficiency by harnessing renewable energy.

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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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