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Charred Wooden Facade Intertwined with Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Authors:
Justin Warner, Joseph Starbuck
Charred Wooden Facade Intertwined with Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

With charred wood cladding that reflects the volcanic landscape and green roofing that enhances local biodiversity, this community space serves as a hub for cultural engagement and artistic expression in the heart of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project utilizes charred wood cladding, enhancing durability and visual appeal while reflecting local building traditions.
02
Incorporated green roofs support local biodiversity and improve thermal performance, seamlessly integrating with the surrounding landscape.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels were employed to create a lightweight yet resilient structure, demonstrating innovative construction techniques.
04
Large glass façades provide panoramic views of the iconic Myvatn scenery, fostering a connection between indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
Flexible exhibition areas allow for a variety of cultural events, encouraging community interaction and engagement in the arts.
The HVERFJALL CENTER is an architectural project situated in the picturesque Myvatn region of Iceland. This design embodies a connection between contemporary architecture and the surrounding natural landscape, with a focus on creating a cultural hub that serves both locals and visitors. The center is intended to be a space for artistic expression and community engagement, promoting a deeper appreciation of the unique geological features and rich cultural history of the area.

The HVERFJALL CENTER operates as a multifaceted facility, hosting exhibition spaces, meeting rooms, and communal areas that encourage interaction among users. These spaces are meticulously designed to facilitate a variety of functions, from showcasing local art and culture to providing a setting for workshops and community gatherings. The project emphasizes the importance of creating an environment that fosters creativity and collaboration while remaining environmentally conscious and contextually relevant.

A key aspect of the HVERFJALL CENTER is its architectural design, which reflects the rugged landscape that characterizes the Myvatn area. The design merges natural and built environments through the careful choice of materials and spatial organization. Charred wood siding, concrete facades, and expansive glass panels combine to enhance both the aesthetic appeal and functional performance of the building. The charred wood not only offers a distinctive visual texture but also showcases traditional craftsmanship, while the concrete provides structural integrity and alludes to the region's volcanic geology. Large glass elements are incorporated throughout the design, enabling natural light to flood the interior and connecting users visually to the stunning outdoor scenery.

The layout of the center is well thought out to encourage flow and accessibility. The main exhibition spaces are designed with flexibility in mind, accommodating various display formats and event types. These areas are complemented by meeting rooms and offices that prioritize both collaboration and quiet reflection. The inclusion of a café and lounge space provides a communal hub, where visitors can gather, relax, and exchange ideas. This balance between public and private spaces reflects a thoughtful approach to design, focused on meeting the diverse needs of users.

One of the unique design approaches of the HVERFJALL CENTER is its integration of green roofs and landscaping that complements the building's architecture. This not only helps to reduce stormwater runoff but also enhances biodiversity by providing habitats for local flora and fauna. The vegetation further reinforces the connection to the natural environment, allowing the project to blend seamlessly into its surroundings. By prioritizing ecological considerations in its design, the center stands as a testament to the importance of sustainability in contemporary architecture.

The architectural decisions made throughout the HVERFJALL CENTER emphasize a commitment to the local context while fostering a sense of community and creativity. The project achieves a balance between functionality and aesthetics, where each element serves a purpose and contributes to the overall experience of the space. The design encourages exploration, interaction, and a deeper understanding of the rich cultural heritage and natural beauty of the region.

For those interested in delving deeper into the HVERFJALL CENTER, exploring its architectural plans, sections, and overall designs can provide further insight into the thoughtful approaches and innovative ideas that define this project. The careful attention to materiality, sustainability, and spatial organization makes the HVERFJALL CENTER an exemplary model of contemporary architecture, poised to serve as a valuable resource for the community while celebrating the remarkable setting in which it resides.
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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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