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Volcanic Metal Cladding And Timber Integration For Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Author:
Gencho Dishev
Volcanic Metal Cladding And Timber Integration For Sustainable Trekking Cabins

Project in-detail

Utilizing volcanic metal cladding and timber construction, the cabins offer sustainable accommodation that harmonizes with Iceland's rugged landscape while providing essential amenities for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabrication for efficient assembly in remote locations.
02
Incorporates a rainwater harvesting system for sustainable water management.
03
Features a wind turbine for self-sufficient energy production.
04
Designed with biophilic elements to enhance connection with nature.
05
Employs insulated metal cladding to withstand harsh weather conditions.

# Analytical Report on the Iceland Trekking Cabins

## Overview

Located within the stunning landscape of Iceland, the Trekking Cabins address the unique challenges posed by the surrounding volcanic terrain. The design focuses on sustainability, functionality, and enhancing the overall trekking experience. By integrating with the natural environment, the cabins serve as practical and aesthetic accommodations for outdoor enthusiasts, capturing the essence of Iceland's wild beauty.

## Spatial Organization and Functional Zoning

The layout of the cabins is organized around a central spine, which optimizes movement and enhances functionality. This central axis facilitates the allocation of sleeping pods, utility spaces, and bathrooms, providing an efficient distribution of areas while maximizing comfort for guests. The design incorporates multifunctional spaces to foster communal interactions, allowing for shared activities such as cooking and socializing, thereby enriching the visitor experience amidst the rugged landscape.

## Material Specifications and Sustainability Features

Constructed with an insulated metal frame and seamed metal cladding, the cabins ensure durability and thermal efficiency against Iceland’s harsh weather conditions. Timber interiors create a warm atmosphere, contrasting with the exterior's industrial aesthetics, while double clear polycarbonate sheets provide optimal natural lighting.

In alignment with sustainable practices, the cabins feature a rainwater harvesting system that supplies water needs and a wind turbine capable of generating electricity, supplemented by energy storage solutions to ensure reliability. These components contribute to the self-sufficiency of the cabins, minimizing their ecological footprint while allowing them to function effectively in a remote location.

The extensive use of glass promotes a connection to the environment, emphasizing biophilic design principles that enhance occupants' psychological well-being by providing immersive views of the captivating landscape.

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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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