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Accessibility-Focused Visitor Center Integrated with Natural Landscapes

Authors:
Bastiaan Muilwijk, Alexander Lagaaij
Accessibility-Focused Visitor Center Integrated with Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Designed for accessibility and integration with the breathtaking landscapes of Myvatn, the facility combines a multipurpose exhibition hall and information center, enhancing the visitor experience through thoughtful organization and seamless navigation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed for full accessibility, ensuring ease of movement for all visitors.
02
Strategically oriented to highlight views of the surrounding natural attractions.
03
Incorporates an underground parking area, enhancing ease of access.
04
Features a multipurpose exhibition hall adaptable for various events.
05
Integrated with the landscape to promote a strong connection with nature.

The design known as "Starfish" takes shape in the scenic surroundings of Myvatn Lake, Myvatn Nature Baths, Hverfjall, and the Dimmuborgir Lava Fields. It serves multiple functions, including a multipurpose exhibition hall, a café, offices, and an information center. The overall design concept emphasizes accessibility and visitor flow, allowing people to move through the space comfortably and easily.

Design Organization

The project features a clear and logical layout, bringing together various facilities that enhance the visitor experience. The multipurpose exhibition hall serves as a flexible space for different types of events and displays. Adjacent to it, the café offers a place for visitors to relax and enjoy refreshments. The information center acts as a helpful resource, guiding visitors in exploring both the facility and the surrounding attractions.

Accessibility Features

Accessibility is a key principle in the design, ensuring that all routes within the building are wheelchair-friendly. An underground parking area is included, which can be accessed by a ramp. This thoughtful addition makes the facility reachable for everyone, highlighting its commitment to inclusivity and ease of use for all visitors.

Orientation and Interaction

The layout is oriented to direct attention toward the main tourist attractions in the area. Entry points are placed strategically to create a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging people to enter and explore. This careful arrangement promotes interaction between visitors and the space, enhancing their overall experience.

Environmental Integration

Starfish is designed to connect with its natural surroundings. The structures work in harmony with the landscape, giving visitors a sense of place and appreciation for the area's features. This design approach allows the building to be more than just a place; it becomes part of the environment. The incorporation of views of Myvatn Lake invites visitors to engage visually and emotionally with the 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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