Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Basalt Cladding and ETFE Roof Overlooking Hverfjall: A Sustainable Educational Hub

Authors:
Kevin Loewen, Kenny Li, Brent Lauman
Basalt Cladding and ETFE Roof Overlooking Hverfjall: A Sustainable Educational Hub

Project in-detail

With basalt cladding and an ETFE membrane roof that captures natural light, the design creates a productive greenhouse and educational space that harmonizes with the landscape around Hverfjall.
5 key facts about this project
01
Basalt cladding mirrors the local geological features.
02
Rooftop greenhouse maximizes sunlight for sustainable growth.
03
Stormwater collection systems irrigate hydroponic crops.
04
Central courtyard fosters interaction and learning experiences.
05
Extensive glazing frames views of the Hverfjall volcano.

The design is set against the impressive backdrop of the Hverfjall volcano and Mývatn natural baths in Iceland. It serves multiple functions, including educational activities related to sustainable agriculture and dining experiences. The concept focuses on blending the built environment with the natural landscape. It encourages visitors to engage with the site through paths that follow the natural topography.

Design Concept
The design features a flow of natural and built elements that encourages a connection with the surrounding landscape. Ramps guide visitors along a gently inclined surface, enhancing their experience and spatial awareness of the area. The roof slopes down to follow the land, creating a visual connection between the architecture and the natural environment.

Central Courtyard
In the center lies a courtyard that connects crucial areas, including a two-storey greenhouse. This courtyard acts as a hub for movement and interaction. Guests can immerse themselves in learning about natural systems while exploring the productive landscape. The greenhouse positioned on the rooftop maximizes sun exposure, making it an inviting space for visitors while supporting plant growth.

Sustainable Systems
A noteworthy aspect of the building is its sustainable approach to water management. Stormwater is collected from the roof and used for irrigation in hydroponic systems. This method not only promotes sustainability but also demonstrates a responsible use of resources.

Materiality
The materials used in the construction significantly contribute to the design's context. Black basalt stone cladding mirrors the local geography, helping to ground the structure in its environment. Glass and aluminum elements add transparency, allowing natural light to flood in and creating a connection to the outside. In the greenhouse, an ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE) membrane is used, allowing for abundant light while minimizing energy use.

Large windows throughout the building frame scenic views of the volcanic landscape. This feature enhances the feeling of being part of the natural surroundings, creating a calm atmosphere inside.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy