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Turf Roofs and Dark Wood Retreats Designed for Northern Lights Viewing

Authors:
Jianfeng Liu, Bo Li, Zhen Zhang, Lutao Gao
Turf Roofs and Dark Wood Retreats Designed for Northern Lights Viewing

Project in-detail

Turf roofs and dark wooden structures create a seamless blend with the Icelandic landscape, providing visitors a warm, sustainable retreat that prioritizes Northern Lights observation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Turf roofs provide natural insulation and blend seamlessly into the surrounding landscape.
02
The design utilizes dark wood planks to enhance thermal efficiency and reduce visual impact.
03
Each guest house features large glass curtain walls, maximizing views of the Northern Lights.
04
Modular configurations allow flexible accommodation options for varying group sizes.
05
The project incorporates a self-sufficient power system using geothermal energy and batteries.

### Overview
Located in Iceland, the project emphasizes a harmonious relationship between architecture and the surrounding natural environment, enhancing the experience for visitors by promoting sustainable practices. The design draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture while incorporating contemporary elements. A total of 18 small residences are arranged in a configuration that optimizes views of the Northern Lights and integrates seamlessly with the site's gentle hills.

### Spatial Organization
The architectural layout is characterized by a modular design that provides flexibility in accommodation options, accommodating varying group sizes and preferences. Each structure is organized in a circular plan around a central communal area, fostering social interaction among guests and enhancing the sense of community. Turf roofs on each building not only offer insulation but also integrate the structures into the landscape while providing unobstructed views of the auroras.

### Materiality and Energy Efficiency
Materials have been carefully selected to address both aesthetic and functional requirements. Dark wooden planks are used for the walls to absorb heat and blend with the landscape, while glass curtain walls invite natural light and views into the interiors. The deployment of thin black steel frames minimizes visual obstruction, enhancing spatial openness. Sustainability is prioritized through the use of locally sourced materials and energy-efficient systems, including geothermal energy and solar panels, which reflect Iceland's commitment to renewable resources. Each guest house is equipped with independent power systems and innovative water management strategies, contributing to overall ecological responsibility.

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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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