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Biophilic Community Hub Featuring Textured Concrete and Locally Sourced Wood

Author:
Chan Tak chak
Biophilic Community Hub Featuring Textured Concrete and Locally Sourced Wood

Project in-detail

Textured concrete and locally sourced wood create a harmonious connection to Iceland's stunning glaciers, serving as a versatile community hub that fosters engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced wood to reduce transportation emissions and enhance local economy.
02
Incorporates a bent A-frame design that mimics the surrounding glacier formations.
03
Features textured concrete panels that promote natural insulation while providing aesthetic appeal.
04
Includes a community greenhouse that serves both educational and agricultural purposes.
05
Employs passive solar design principles to optimize energy efficiency throughout the year.
The Berghub project represents a thoughtful architectural response to its Icelandic context, situated near the breathtaking Myvatn region, characterized by its striking ice formations and geothermal landscapes. This design thoughtfully integrates with its environment, aiming to serve as a central hub for community engagement and educational activities. The project’s primary function is to provide a versatile space for gatherings, workshops, and exhibitions, thereby promoting social interaction and fostering a sense of community.

In developing the architectural design, the architects drew inspiration from the surrounding glacial features. The building’s form is intentionally non-linear, evoking the irregular shapes of icebergs and adapting to the natural contours of the site. This organic approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of the structure but also ensures that it harmonizes with its striking environment. The architects have carefully considered the orientation of the building to maximize natural light and airflow, which contributes to energy efficiency and occupant comfort.

A key feature of Berghub is its multifunctional layout, which allows flexibility in how spaces are used. The central community room is designed as the heart of the building, providing an adaptable area for various activities ranging from public meetings to cultural events. Adjacent to this is a series of workshop spaces that facilitate hands-on learning and exploration of sustainability practices, reinforcing the project’s commitment to environmental education. The public greenhouse and garden spaces complement these features, serving both as recreational areas and as practical examples of sustainable agriculture.

The materiality of the project reflects a conscious choice to prioritize sustainability. Concrete is prominently used, providing structural integrity while supporting the building's longevity. The incorporation of sustainably-sourced wood adds warmth to interior spaces and creates a connection to local resources. Large glass windows not only frame picturesque views of the landscape but also invite natural light into the interiors, reducing the need for artificial lighting during the day. These material choices exemplify a balance between durability, environmental considerations, and aesthetic appeal.

The unique design approaches utilized in Berghub underscore an intention to cultivate community well-being while respecting the natural environment. The architects have engaged with the site’s geological features, employing a design that is both innovative and sensitive to its surroundings. The varied rooflines and undulating forms echo the natural topography, creating a visual dialogue with the landscape that enhances the overall experience of the site.

Furthermore, the project emphasizes sustainability as a core principle. By providing spaces that educate the public about environmental best practices, Berghub functions not only as a physical building but also as a platform for dialogue about the importance of ecological stewardship. This aligns with broader architectural trends that prioritize sustainability and community engagement, highlighting how architectural design can serve multiple purposes beyond mere shelter.

As you explore the project further, take the time to examine the architectural plans, sections, and additional design details that demonstrate the careful consideration given to both form and function. The intricate architectural ideas reflected in Berghub illustrate how thoughtful design can enhance a community’s interaction with its environment, make a statement about sustainability, and enrich the social fabric of the area. Delve deeper into the project presentation for a more comprehensive understanding of its architectural vision and the impact it aims to achieve.
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MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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