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Basalt Cubes Embracing Geothermal Growth Near Mývatn Nature Baths

Authors:
Otoha Seki, Miki Egawa, Daichi Tanaka
Basalt Cubes Embracing Geothermal Growth Near Mývatn Nature Baths

Project in-detail

Constructed from basalt, five cubes create a unique habitat integrating a geothermal greenhouse with a restaurant, positioned to capture sunlight and provide views of the Mývatn Nature Baths.
5 key facts about this project
01
Five cubes are aligned along a north-south axis to maximize winter sunlight exposure.
02
The roof design slashes downward to enhance natural light and connection to the landscape.
03
A geothermal greenhouse is integrated with a restaurant, promoting local food cultivation.
04
Icelandic basalt is used as the primary material, grounding the structure in its environment.
05
Large openings frame views of the Mývatn Nature Baths and Kverkfjöll volcano.

Five distinct cubes are placed within the Icelandic landscape, designed to serve as a new destination for visitors near the Mývatn Nature Baths, which are an hour's drive from Akureyri. The concept emphasizes a thoughtful relationship between the buildings and their surroundings, aiming to maximize natural light while providing an enjoyable experience for users in a unique climate.

Design Concept

The cubes are arranged along a north-south axis to capture sunlight effectively, especially during the winter months. This orientation is essential for the project’s dual focus on a geothermal greenhouse and a restaurant. The slashed roof design allows sunlight to enter, particularly on the winter solstice, creating an environment that encourages plant growth and sustainability.

Functional Integration

Combining greenhouse and restaurant spaces fosters an interactive experience for visitors. People can engage in both the cultivation and enjoyment of food grown locally. This approach transforms the site from a mere tourist spot into a local gathering space, promoting community involvement and sustainable practices in agriculture.

Spatial Organization

Within the southernmost cube, a multipurpose hall serves different activities, such as yoga lessons and film screenings. This flexible design allows for various uses. The overall layout includes distinct functional areas, such as a restaurant entrance, a reception counter, and a greenhouse area, all configured to ensure smooth movement and ease of access throughout the building.

Materiality

Icelandic basalt is the primary material used, creating a visual and contextual link with the nearby landscape. This choice not only contributes to the overall look but also supports the structure. The result is a sense of place that feels harmonious with the environment.

The building features large openings that frame views of the Mývatn Nature Baths and the Kverkfjöll volcano. These elements enhance the connection between the architecture and the surrounding natural features, enriching the experience for all who visit.

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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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