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Charred Wood Shingles and Basalt Stone Create a Community Hub Embracing Sustainable Living

Authors:
Ahmed Hefila, Menna Hesham
Charred Wood Shingles and Basalt Stone Create a Community Hub Embracing Sustainable Living

Project in-detail

Blending charred wood shingles and local basalt stone, the design creates a harmonious community hub that promotes sustainable living and social connectivity amidst the stunning landscape of Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building employs charred wooden shingles to enhance weather resistance while paying homage to traditional craftsmanship.
02
Local basalt stone is strategically used for foundation elements, creating a strong connection to the surrounding geography.
03
A bent A-frame design offers unique structural benefits, optimizing interior space while maintaining aesthetic appeal.
04
Cross-laminated timber panels are utilized for their lightweight properties, enabling efficient construction without compromising durability.
05
Dedicated zones for community trade and waste management reflect a commitment to sustainability and local engagement.
The Mývatn Hut project represents an innovative approach to architectural design, blending traditional concepts with modern functionality in a picturesque geographical setting. Located by the expansive Mývatn Lake, the hut serves as a community center aiming to foster connection and engagement among locals and visitors alike. It embraces the essence of the local landscape and cultural heritage while offering spaces that are both functional and inviting.

This architectural design elegantly balances communal needs with environmental considerations, emphasizing sustainability throughout its conception. The primary function of the Mývatn Hut is to serve as a gathering place where people can come together for various activities, including social events, educational workshops, and community meetings. By providing adaptable spaces, the project ensures that it can cater to a broad range of uses, thereby significantly enhancing its relevance to the community.

The layout of the Mývatn Hut is carefully organized to prioritize accessibility and social interaction. Central to the design is a multipurpose community room that acts as the heart of the structure, bringing people together and encouraging interaction. Surrounding this central area are smaller zones designated for children’s activities and multifunctional spaces that can be reconfigured as needed. This thoughtful organization facilitates ease of movement, ensuring that visitors can transition seamlessly between areas.

Material selection plays a crucial role in defining the architecture of the Mývatn Hut. Local basalt stones provide a solid foundation, connecting the structure to its natural environment while echoes of traditional turf homes can be seen in the use of birch wood for the walls. This choice adds warmth and texture to the aesthetic, promoting a natural dialogue with the surrounding landscape. The roof, constructed from corrugated metal, introduces a contemporary edge to the design while providing necessary protection against the elements. A significant design element is the incorporation of large glass panels, which not only allows for abundant natural light but strengthens the relationship between the interior spaces and the captivating views of the nearby lake and volcanic landscapes.

Sustainability is woven throughout the architectural design. The use of recycled materials, particularly in the glazing of the building, emphasizes an ecological mindset that respects the surrounding environment while reducing waste. Moreover, the design takes into account local climatic conditions with strategies such as passive solar heating, ensuring energy efficiency and comfort for occupants. The integration of designated zones for waste management further highlights a commitment to ecological responsibility within community operations.

Unique design approaches are evident in how the Mývatn Hut has been conceived in relation to its context. It does not merely occupy the space; it aims to enhance the quality of life within its environment, reflecting the community's identity and history. The architectural layout encourages a sense of belonging, where the structure serves as a backdrop for social practices and cultural gatherings.

The distinctively designed thematic zones facilitate various functions, each engaging users in unique ways. The inclusion of areas dedicated to the waste cycle emphasizes a community-centric view on sustainable living, encouraging residents to participate actively in ecological practices. Meanwhile, the trade cycle promotes the exchange of local resources and crafts, enriching the social fabric of the area. The social fun cycle comprises recreational spots designed for leisurely engagement and socialization, completing the hut's role as a central hub for community life.

In summary, the Mývatn Hut project skillfully integrates architectural ideas that prioritize community engagement and sustainability, reflecting a clear understanding of its geographical and cultural context. The blend of traditional materials with modern design philosophies creates an inviting environment that supports diverse functions. Those interested in exploring the intricate details of this project can gain further insights by reviewing the architectural plans, sections, and design concepts that illustrate how this innovative project comes together to enhance the experience of the community and its visitors.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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