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Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Geometry Define a Cultural Community Center in Iceland

Author:
BartŁomiej Gabriel Mierczak
Charred Wooden Shingles and Modular Geometry Define a Cultural Community Center in Iceland

Project in-detail

Incorporating charred wooden shingles and a modular geometric approach, the design creates a functional community center that reflects Icelandic cultural heritage while seamlessly integrating with its landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Features a modular geometric layout that allows for flexible usage of interior spaces.
03
Designed to harmonize with the natural topography, minimizing visual impact on the landscape.
04
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels to promote sustainability and efficient construction.
05
Includes interactive terraces that encourage engagement with the surrounding environment.

## Overview
“NINT VIVÉ” is an architectural project located in Iceland that draws upon traditional cultural elements while employing contemporary design principles. The project strives to create a meaningful connection between the built environment and the natural landscape, reflecting the heritage and identity of the region. Through its form and material choices, the design seeks to engage visitors in an exploration of Icelandic culture and history.

### Spatial Organization
The design features a series of distinct zones, each tailored to specific functions that promote social interaction and connectivity. Key spaces include a main entrance and information center, a refreshment area, storage facilities, and dedicated viewing decks. The organization of these areas is strategically implemented to enhance user engagement while respecting the existing topography. The configuration allows for both private contemplation and communal activities, fostering a sense of community within the structure.

### Material Selection and Environmental Integration
The project's material palette is essential to its architectural expression and sustainability. It includes wood for warmth and structural support, metal for durability, glass for transparency and landscape framing, and reinforced concrete for foundational strength. This careful selection not only responds to the climatic challenges of the Icelandic environment but also reflects a commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates recessed forms and terraced roofs that blend with the terrain, minimizing visual disruption and establishing a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful integration reinforces the project's environmental goals and enhances the overall user experience.

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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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