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Wind-Powered Structure with Brise Soleil Overlooking Natural Vistas

Authors:
Monica Montuschi, Alessandro Cerullo, Edgar paul Enriquez ibarra, Andrea Torreggiani
Wind-Powered Structure with Brise Soleil Overlooking Natural Vistas

Project in-detail

Two small wind turbines power the Haekkun Tower, which incorporates a brise soleil to manage light while offering panoramic views of the surrounding landscape for visitors seeking solitary reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Brise soleil enhances natural light and energy efficiency.
02
Two small wind turbines provide renewable energy on-site.
03
Modular design simplifies construction and transportation.
04
Water recycling system uses rainwater and grey water effectively.
05
Strategic viewpoints offer unique perspectives of the Icelandic landscape.

The Haekkun Tower is an architectural structure located in the rugged Icelandic landscape. It serves as a place for contemplation and connection to nature, allowing visitors to embark on an upward journey that unveils different views of the surroundings. The design combines solitude with community, highlighted by a service center at its base that encourages social interaction. This thoughtful approach enhances the experience of being in such a unique environment.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is a key element of the Haekkun Tower's design. The building operates independently by using renewable energy sources, which helps to reduce its environmental impact. A mechanical ventilation (MEV) system is paired with a heat pump to ensure effective air circulation and temperature control. This setup is particularly important in addressing the cold winters of Iceland, making the interior comfortable while minimizing energy loss.

The design also includes a water management system. Rainwater and grey water are collected, filtered, and used within the plumbing system. This method demonstrates an effort to use local water resources wisely and to minimize waste.

Modularity and Materials

The architecture of the Haekkun Tower embraces modular design, featuring three main beams of different sizes along with corresponding pillar heights. This approach simplifies construction and contributes to efficient use of resources. The materials used are wood, steel, and glass, selected for their ability to complement the natural surroundings. These choices support both the practical requirements of the building and enhance its aesthetic presence.

Energy Production and Integration

Incorporated into the design are two small wind turbines from the Icelandic company ICEWIND. These turbines capture the steady winds of the region, contributing to the tower's energy supply. Overall, the Haekkun Tower reflects a balanced approach to combining sustainability and architectural design.

A notable feature of the tower is the brise soleil, which controls the light that enters the building. This element creates a dynamic atmosphere inside, helping to establish a relationship between the interior spaces and the outdoor environment. Light shifts throughout the day, allowing moments of quiet reflection while connecting visitors to the Icelandic 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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