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Celestial Skylight Within A Crater-Form Structure Utilizing Sustainable Wood Elements

Authors:
Roman Bargen, Sergey Nenashev, Ivan Danilov
Celestial Skylight Within A Crater-Form Structure Utilizing Sustainable Wood Elements

Project in-detail

Incorporating a celestial skylight and a crater-form design, the structure seamlessly integrates sustainable wood elements to create a multifunctional space for community engagement and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a celestial skylight that mimics constellations.
02
Features a crater-shaped conference hall that enhances acoustics.
03
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for fire resistance and aesthetic appeal.
04
Incorporates large glass panels for panoramic views of the landscape.
05
Designed to facilitate community engagement and educational activities.

The project "Portal" represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and the natural environment, developed within a context that resonates with Iceland's distinctive landscape. Designed to serve multiple functions, including a visitor's room, conference hall, and multipurpose area, this architectural endeavor promotes exploration and engagement with the surrounding ecosystem. The design not only accommodates diverse activities but also expresses a coherent narrative that reflects both local culture and the broader themes of exploration.

Spatial Configuration and Functionality
The layout of "Portal" is strategically organized to facilitate interaction and engagement. Key spaces include an educational visitor's room designed to enlighten guests about food production, making a direct connection between gastronomy and nature. The conference hall, structured like a crater, embraces the geological identity of the region while providing a versatile venue for events. Additionally, the multipurpose area is designed for flexibility, allowing for a variety of community activities. An observation deck enhances the project’s character by offering unobstructed views of the sweeping landscape, further reinforcing its connection to the environment.

Innovative Design Approaches
What sets "Portal" apart from conventional projects is its unique approach to connection with nature. The design incorporates features such as a skylight that mimics constellations, creating an atmospheric interior reflective of the celestial environment. Large glass panels are utilized throughout, enhancing visibility and allowing ample natural light to flood the interior spaces, thereby blurring the boundaries between the indoors and outdoors. This dynamic facade not only changes appearance throughout the day but also reinforces the project's thematic ties to its natural context.

Sustainability and Material Considerations
In terms of materiality, the project thoughtfully employs sustainable materials that align with environmental principles. Concrete is used for structural integrity, while wood adds warmth to interior spaces, creating an inviting atmosphere for users. The integration of glass facilitates transparency and promotes a direct connection to the visual landscape, essential for the project's core philosophy.

Overall, "Portal" serves as a model for how architecture can complement and enhance its environment, creating spaces that foster community interaction and appreciation of nature. For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and overall ideas behind this project, readers are encouraged to explore the detailed presentation available.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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