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Charred Shingle Roof and Transparent Walls in a Versatile Community Space

Author:
Romain Bourgeois
Charred Shingle Roof and Transparent Walls in a Versatile Community Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing a charred shingle roof and polycarbonate walls, this community building in the Myvatn region of Iceland merges sustainable materials with functional design to facilitate diverse activities and promote ecological awareness.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates polycarbonate panels to maximize natural light while maintaining structural transparency.
03
Features a modular layout adaptable for diverse community functions.
04
Integrates a greenhouse to support local horticultural initiatives.
05
Emphasizes ecological education through transparent waste management workshops.

The Hut is an architectural project located in the Myvatn region of Iceland. The design focuses on creating a multipurpose community space that reflects the region's natural beauty while catering to various community functions. This facility is characterized by its integration with the landscape, use of local materials, and commitment to sustainability, promoting ecological awareness in its design approach.

The Hut serves multiple roles, including community gatherings, educational workshops, and resource collection. Key areas include a community room designed for up to 50 occupants, a dedicated children’s area, and a greenhouse that supports local horticulture. The architectural layout promotes efficient circulation, ensuring that the distinct spaces serve their purposes effectively. The materials utilized in the construction include wood, polycarbonate panels, glass, corrugated metal, and concrete, all chosen to enhance the project's durability and environmental harmony.

Architectural Integration and Design Approaches

What sets The Hut apart from other community structures is its thoughtful interaction with the surrounding environment. The elongated, horizontal form mirrors the natural contours of the landscape, providing unobstructed views and maximizing light penetration. The use of polycarbonate and glass allows for a seamless connection between interior spaces and the exterior environment, fostering a sense of openness and accessibility.

The design explicitly embraces sustainability, emphasizing educational initiatives related to waste management and recycling. By incorporating transparent workshops into the architectural framework, the project encourages community engagement and promotes ecological responsibility. This transparent approach allows residents to participate actively in sustainable practices, making the act of conservation part of their daily interactions.

Functional Design and Spatial Organization

The spatial organization of The Hut is carefully planned to accommodate diverse activities while facilitating easy circulation. A main corridor leads through the structure, connecting the various functional areas and encouraging movement throughout the space. Each designated area, including the multipurpose community room and resource collection zone, is designed with flexibility in mind, allowing for future adaptability.

The architectural details further enhance the project's functionality. The choice of materials provides durability while reflecting local building traditions. The integration of a greenhouse not only serves a practical purpose but also reinforces the community's commitment to sustainability and local development.

Overall, The Hut represents a nuanced approach to community building through architecture, linking design, environmental integration, and social interaction. For those interested in gaining deeper insights, it is advisable to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs to fully appreciate the innovative ideas embedded within this project.

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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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