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Bas-Relief Art and Sustainable Turf Roofs Define A Community Hub Using Local Larch

Authors:
Katharine Bartsch, Christina Maria Akele
Bas-Relief Art and Sustainable Turf Roofs Define A Community Hub Using Local Larch

Project in-detail

Incorporating bas-relief art that reflects local geology and featuring vibrant turf roofs, the design enhances community interaction while providing spaces for leisure and wellness in a sustainable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes sustainably sourced larch wood for both structural and aesthetic elements.
02
Incorporates green roofs that enhance biodiversity and provide natural insulation.
03
Features bas-relief art inspired by the local geological context and landscape.
04
Designed with multi-level circulation to foster community interaction and accessibility.
05
Integrates large glass panels for optimal natural light and views of the surrounding environment.

## Project Overview

Endurnýja, located in Iceland, reflects an integration of local architectural vernacular and contemporary design practices. The project's nomenclature, translating to "RENEW," signifies its focus on sustainability and modern innovation, all while honoring traditional Icelandic aesthetics and regional context.

### Layout and Circulation

The building is organized across three levels, each designed for specific functions that enhance user interaction and experience. The ground floor features a lobby, café, and brewery, fostering community engagement from the moment visitors arrive. The first floor emphasizes privacy with spa facilities and relaxation areas, providing a tranquil environment. In contrast, the second floor encourages social interaction through a beer tasting bar and semi-private terraces that facilitate gatherings. Circulation is carefully planned with multiple entry points and ample staircases, contributing to an open atmosphere and smooth flow throughout the space.

### Materiality and Aesthetic Characteristics

A careful selection of materials plays a vital role in the project's sustainability efforts and aesthetic coherence. Larch wood, used for cladding, offers a sustainable choice while enhancing the natural aesthetic. Concrete is utilized for structural purposes, featuring a rendered finish that marries durability with visual appeal. Terrazzo flooring introduces artistic elements derived from local resources, while green roofs serve both ecological and insulation functions. Notably, the incorporation of expansive glass walls floods the interiors with natural light and maintains a visual connection to the landscape. The architecture creates a dialogue between hard and soft materials, with design elements like tall ceilings and unique roof shapes integrating seamlessly with the surrounding environment. These characteristics not only highlight Iceland's natural beauty but also adapt to the changing dynamics of natural light throughout the day.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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MICROHOME
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