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Branching Forms and Natural Materials in a Geothermal Spa Environment

Authors:
Chun te Lee, Chang ting Lin, Chao chun Kung, Pei chi Tsai
Branching Forms and Natural Materials in a Geothermal Spa Environment

Project in-detail

Rising from the geothermal landscape, a fountain-shaped tower constructed with local materials serves as an observation point and spa, inviting visitors to engage with the unique thermal features of Grjótagjá Cave.
5 key facts about this project
01
A fountain-shaped tower mimics natural growth, emerging like branches from the ground.
02
Utilizes geothermal heat and water from hot springs for energy efficiency.
03
Designed to enhance visitor experience with dedicated observation and spa areas.
04
Incorporates local materials to reinforce the connection with the surrounding landscape.
05
Emphasizes sustainability by integrating traditional Icelandic heating practices.

The site at Grjótagjá Cave in northern Iceland offers a striking example of architecture that engages deeply with nature. Surrounded by geothermal hot springs, the design captures the essence of the landscape, inviting visitors to appreciate its unique beauty. The concept revolves around "White Spring," which highlights the contrast between the cold, snowy winters of Iceland and the warmth emanating from the hot springs. This relationship between the built environment and the natural world is at the heart of the design.

Conceptual Framework

The design reflects the duality of the cold landscape and the inviting warmth of the hot springs. A fountain-shaped tower rises from the ground, resembling new branches pushing through the earth. This tower is not just a visual element; it also serves a functional purpose, offering an observation point and information center for guests. This approach creates a direct connection between the architecture and its environment.

Visitor Integration

Spaces designed for visitor use play a key role in the overall layout. These include an information stand, male locker room, and a semi-outdoor spa. Each area is thoughtfully positioned to enhance the visitor experience, encouraging exploration and engagement with the geothermal features of the site. This focus on accessibility demonstrates an understanding of how people will interact with the space.

Sustainability and Materiality

The project pays respect to local traditions by using thermal steam from the hot springs for heating, combining traditional practices with modern energy conservation methods. Local materials are chosen to reinforce a sense of place, promoting sustainable architecture that resonates with the rugged landscape of Iceland.

Large windows are a notable feature of the tower, allowing plenty of natural light and offering stunning views of the surrounding area. This design choice creates an inviting atmosphere and encourages visitors to feel connected to the remarkable Icelandic environment.

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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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