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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Formations in a Volcanic Landscape Community Hub

Author:
Pablo Fuertes
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Formations in a Volcanic Landscape Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and robust concrete, the design seamlessly integrates with Iceland's volcanic landscape to create a versatile community hub that fosters cultural engagement and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that aids in passive heating and cooling.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly into the volcanic landscape, enhancing topographical continuity.
05
Offers flexible interior spaces to accommodate diverse community activities.

The architectural project "Perforating Lights" is situated in the unique volcanic landscape of Iceland. It combines functionality with a strong connection to its environmental context. Designed to serve as an information center and cultural hub, the architecture facilitates both public engagement and private contemplation. The structure ingeniously integrates with its surroundings while offering versatile spaces that cater to various user activities.

The project includes a main hall for gatherings, an exhibition area to showcase local art and geological features, and a coffee shop designed for relaxation. The building utilizes natural materials, with significant use of concrete, steel, glass, and natural stone. Each material is carefully selected not only for durability but also for its aesthetic qualities, ensuring a cohesive visual language that resonates with the Icelandic topography.

The architectural design emphasizes the manipulation of light, with strategic openings that create dynamic effects of light and shadow across the internal spaces. This approach enhances the user experience, allowing occupants to engage with the changing natural light throughout the day. The interplay between indoor and outdoor environments is a significant consideration, creating a seamless transition from the building to the landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through its focus on sustainability and environmental integration. Rather than imposing a conventional structure onto the landscape, "Perforating Lights" operates as a natural extension of its surroundings. The adaptive use of local materials minimizes the ecological footprint and promotes the creation of a site-specific architecture.

The layout of the project is designed to foster a sense of community and belonging. Spaces are interconnected yet serve distinct functions, allowing for simultaneous activities without disruption. The design encourages public interaction while also providing areas for solitude, thus accommodating a wide range of user needs.

Spatial relationships are also a key aspect of the design, with the arrangement of spaces reflecting the natural contours of the site. Large windows and skylights are strategically placed to enhance views of the volcanic landscape, encouraging a connection between the building's occupants and the environment.

Architectural Design and Features

The architectural details of “Perforating Lights” include variations in ceiling heights, textures, and finishes that contribute to a rich sensory experience. The main hall, with its high ceilings and expansive windows, serves as the focal point of the building and a multi-functional space. The exhibition zone is carefully curated to enhance the display of artworks, incorporating natural light in a manner that complements the artistic intent.

Sustainability features are embedded within the design. The project is oriented to maximize energy efficiency, with considerations for passive heating and cooling. Green roofs and wall systems may be employed to promote biodiversity and integrate the building further into its environment.

In summary, the architectural project "Perforating Lights" offers a comprehensive examination of how built environments can respond to and enhance their natural contexts. For those interested in a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the project presentation will provide valuable insights into its unique approach and execution.

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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
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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