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Black Lava Sand Structure with Plant Epidermis in a Thermal Waters Retreat

Authors:
Alexandra Paltineanu, Nicolas Tzimakas
Black Lava Sand Structure with Plant Epidermis in a Thermal Waters Retreat

Project in-detail

Constructed with black lava sand and enveloped by a living plant epidermis, the retreat harmonizes with its thermal waters while offering spaces for communal engagement and personal reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure incorporates black lava sand concrete to blend with the volcanic landscape.
02
A living plant epidermis is used to enhance environmental integration and seasonal change.
03
Thermal waters are visually accessible from the central gathering area.
04
Footbridges connect various pavilions, promoting circulation and interaction.
05
Design elements reflect the cultural narrative of the hidden people of the land.

The design presents a thoughtful blend of built structures and the natural landscape, located in a remote area that highlights a connection to elemental themes. The concept centers around the notion of a “ship” anchoring itself to the ground, promoting a relationship between the architecture and the environment. This space serves as a refuge for travelers, encouraging both social interaction and opportunities for personal contemplation.

Conceptual Framework

The idea of the “hidden people” is an essential theme, drawing from cultural narratives that highlight the significance of indigenous inhabitants. This approach reflects an understanding of ecological balance and a desire to harmonize with the surrounding ecosystem. The arrangement of spaces balances private areas and communal ones, allowing users to engage deeply with the architecture and the natural environment.

Spatial Configuration

Users enter through a space referred to as the “Earth’s concavity,” which leads to a welcoming central foyer. Here, elements like dancing flames create a warm atmosphere. This area encourages social gatherings while maintaining views of the nearby thermal waters. Throughout the site, footbridges and pavilions serve specific purposes, including wellness activities and social gatherings, helping users navigate the various areas of the design efficiently.

Material Considerations

The materials chosen for construction are vital to achieving the overall vision. Black lava sand concrete makes up the base, connecting the structure to its rugged surroundings. The use of manufactured panels forms the main structural framework, providing both stability and versatility. Concrete panels act as protective layers, complemented by a textured white finishing plaster that harmonizes with the landscape. Additionally, the inclusion of a plant epidermis hints at an ongoing interaction between the architecture and nature, creating an evolving surface that changes with the seasons.

Spaces invite users to find peace among the elements, with design details that enhance the overall experience. Light and shadow play together, creating a dynamic environment that encourages reflection and deeper connections with the world outside.

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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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