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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Creating Symbiosis with Icelandic Landscape

Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Creating Symbiosis with Icelandic Landscape
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Employing charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing, the design seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape while serving as a multifunctional retreat for visitors seeking connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to provide structural stability and energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes multi-functional spaces adaptable to various visitor needs and activities.
05
Designed to harmonize with the rugged Icelandic terrain, fostering a strong connection to nature.

# Fragmenta Caeli Architectural Design Report

## Overview

Fragmenta Caeli is located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, an area distinguished by its dramatic landscape and challenging climatic conditions. The design seeks to create a dialogue between the built environment and the sky, drawing inspiration from both the constellations and the natural formations within the local topography. This project is conceptualized not only as an architectural installation but also as a cultural landmark that engages visitors with its surroundings and encourages introspection and rejuvenation in a stark yet beautiful environment.

## Spatial Composition

The project comprises several interconnected structures, each uniquely designed to respond to the existing landscape. The varying heights, angles, and orientations of the buildings are strategically employed to mirror the natural forms of the terrain. Among these, the **Celestial Spire** serves as a focal point, directing attention skyward and symbolizing aspiration. The **Casiopeia** structure provides a refreshment area, featuring extensive glazing that maximizes natural light and offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The **Andromeda** area functions as a multi-purpose space for community gathering and rest, while the **Perseus** structure addresses practical needs for equipment storage and activities, all while maintaining aesthetic coherence with the overall design.

## Material Specifications

The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional relevance. Local wood is predominantly used for its warmth and connection to traditional Icelandic architecture, while concrete elements provide structural stability and thermal mass. Glass is integrated throughout the design to enhance natural lighting and visual engagement with the landscape. Steel components offer durability and a contemporary aesthetic, serving both structural and decorative purposes. Additionally, energy-efficient insulation materials have been employed to ensure comfort within the interior spaces against the Icelandic climate.

Interior spaces are thoughtfully planned to foster a sense of warmth and hospitality. Features such as fire pits promote communal gathering, while strategically placed viewing decks enhance the visitor experience, allowing for uninterrupted views of the northern skies. The flexibility of room configurations accommodates various activities, ensuring that the spaces can adapt to diverse visitor needs.

Fragmenta Caeli epitomizes a responsive architectural approach that harmonizes with the natural environment, enhancing the wilderness experience while providing functional and communal spaces for visitors. The integration of architectural form and landscape fosters a genuine connection between occupants and their surroundings.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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