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Wooden Shelter Featuring Charred Shingle Facade and Solar Panels for Sustainable Trekking Experience

Authors:
MENG FU KUO, NIEN YING LIN, WEI CHE CHU, NIEN YING LIN, WEI CHE CHU
Wooden Shelter Featuring Charred Shingle Facade and Solar Panels for Sustainable Trekking Experience

Project in-detail

Emphasizing sustainability, a facade of charred wooden shingles and solar panels defines a modular trekking cabin designed for adaptability in Iceland's rugged landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular design allows for reconfiguration based on user needs and terrain.
02
Facade constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance.
03
Incorporation of cross-laminated timber panels for structural efficiency.
04
Solar panels facilitate off-grid energy independence.
05
Natural water collection systems integrated for sustainable resource management.

## Project Overview

The "Double Ridge" project is situated in the diverse landscapes of Iceland, designed as a trekking cabin that emphasizes functionality, aesthetic coherence, and ecological sustainability. It reflects a commitment to integrating modern architectural practices with respect for the local environment and cultural heritage. This design serves as a shelter for outdoor enthusiasts, equipped to withstand varying weather conditions while facilitating an engaging experience with nature.

### Environmental Adaptability and Cultural Relevance

The design prioritizes environmental adaptability, achieving a minimal ecological footprint through a flexible structure that conforms to different terrains and climates. This approach fosters a harmonious relationship between the cabin and its setting. The project draws inspiration from traditional Icelandic architecture, notably ridge huts, merging contemporary aesthetics with culturally relevant forms and construction techniques. The incorporation of local styles emphasizes a dialogue between the new structure and its historical context, ensuring relevance to the Icelandic landscape.

### Material Selection and Utility

Material choices play a crucial role in the project’s sustainability and functional capabilities. Wood serves as a primary material, offering warmth and lightweight durability. Solar panels are integrated to support off-grid energy needs, significantly reducing the carbon footprint. Furthermore, enhanced insulation layers are essential in maintaining comfortable internal temperatures during extreme weather events. The use of eco-friendly finishes aligns with the broader environmental objectives of the design, ensuring that all elements contribute positively to the project’s sustainability ethos.

### Spatial Configuration and User Experience

The spatial layout includes modules named "junction," "chamber," and "platform," designed to facilitate versatility in function and user configuration. This modular arrangement allows for the customization of living spaces according to varied user needs, promoting both communal gatherings and individual solitude. The design incorporates strategic window placements to optimize natural light and ventilation, thereby enhancing energy efficiency while strengthening occupants' connections to the striking Icelandic environment. Additionally, outdoor terraces and sitting areas are integrated to encourage interaction with the natural surroundings.

### Structural Resilience and Innovative Systems

The exterior of the cabin is engineered to withstand Iceland's harsh winds, utilizing resilient materials that ensure comfort and durability. Advanced environmental systems are incorporated for water collection and waste management, enhancing functionality in remote contexts. The flexible layout not only accommodates different group sizes but also supports diverse activities, catering to the needs of solo trekkers as well as larger gatherings.

Overall, the "Double Ridge" project exemplifies a methodical approach to contemporary architecture through its thoughtful design, sustainable methodology, and engagement with cultural context.

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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
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