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Basalt Cladding and Engineered Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub Emphasizing Biodiversity

Authors:
Misak Terzibasiyan, Georgios Koliotsas, Shadi Hashemian, Amir Feizinezhadgheshlaghi
Basalt Cladding and Engineered Timber Create a Sustainable Community Hub Emphasizing Biodiversity

Project in-detail

Combining locally sourced basalt and engineered timber, the architectural design establishes a central greenhouse that enhances community engagement while promoting sustainability and ecological education.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building’s cladding is made from locally sourced basalt stone, promoting regional material use.
02
Engineered timber serves as the primary structural element, enhancing sustainability and design flexibility.
03
An integrated greenhouse functions as a “green lung,” supporting local biodiversity and educating the community.
04
Natural ventilation strategies are employed to optimize air quality and indoor comfort throughout the space.
05
The project emphasizes flexible interior designs, allowing for adaptable use in response to community needs.
GREENHOUSE 9 is an architectural project located near Lake Myvatn in Iceland, an area renowned for its breathtaking landscapes and geologically unique features. This design embodies the principles of sustainability and community engagement, acting as a centralized hub that not only serves the local population but also reinforces the values of a circular economy. By integrating a greenhouse into its architectural fabric, the project promotes ecological awareness while addressing the growing concerns around food production and waste management.

The primary function of GREENHOUSE 9 is to provide a space for community interaction and education, making it a vital resource for both residents and visitors. The architectural design emphasizes accessibility and inclusivity, with multiple entrance points that encourage movement and engagement among users. This careful consideration of circulation fosters a sense of community and supports various public functions within the building, facilitating events, workshops, and educational programs focused on sustainability.

In terms of architectural details, the project showcases a harmonious relationship between built form and the natural environment. The building's organic shape is inspired by the surrounding topography, with contours that mirror the landscapes of Iceland. The architects have opted for a material palette that not only aligns with sustainable practices but also ensures durability. Locally sourced basalt stone is used for cladding, which is effective in blending the structure with its geological context. Engineered timber, chosen for its low carbon footprint, makes up the skeletal structure, creating an inviting and warm interior atmosphere. Furthermore, rockwool insulation serves to enhance thermal efficiency, intrinsic to the building's eco-friendly design.

A standout feature of GREENHOUSE 9 is its integrated greenhouse, positioned at the core of the project. This space is designed not only for growing plants but also for educating the community about sustainable agricultural practices. By functioning as a "green lung," the greenhouse supports environmental goals, capturing CO2 and promoting biodiversity in the region. It also serves as a practical solution for managing organic waste, furthering the project's commitment to sustainability.

The design thoughtfully incorporates extensive glazing, allowing natural light to flood the interior. This choice not only reduces energy consumption from artificial lighting but also connects occupants with the stunning views of the Icelandic landscape. The transparent facades enable users to appreciate the seasonal changes and the beauty of the environment surrounding the building, reinforcing a sense of place and belonging.

The interior spaces reflect flexibility, with movable partitions allowing for adaptable configurations. This design approach is crucial, as it enables the building to accommodate various community activities, from workshops to exhibitions. The architects have carefully considered the user experience, ensuring that the layout encourages interaction while also providing quieter spaces for contemplation and learning.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the design, from the elegant integration of roofing using organic turf to enhance insulation, to the sensibly placed communal areas that invite social gatherings. These aspects collectively elevate the architectural narrative of GREENHOUSE 9, embodying a comprehensive approach to modern architecture that prioritizes environmental sustainability, aesthetic harmony, and functional versatility.

In summary, GREENHOUSE 9 showcases an architectural ethos that merges ecological responsibility with community service. Its innovative use of materials, adaptive spaces, and focus on sustainability present a refined approach to contemporary design. Observers are encouraged to delve deeper into the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural ideas that inform this project, providing a comprehensive understanding of its unique contributions to both architecture and community connectivity. Further exploration of these elements will reveal the thoughtful design strategies that have shaped this project into a meaningful asset for the local area and its residents.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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