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Circular Design Utilizing Recycled Concrete and Natural Timber for Community Engagement

Author:
Kenneth Bostock
Circular Design Utilizing Recycled Concrete and Natural Timber for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Crafted from recycled concrete and natural timber, the community house's circular form optimizes space and light while fostering social interactions in a multifunctional gathering environment near Lake Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crafted with a circular form to enhance natural light and ventilation.
02
Utilizes recycled concrete for structural integrity without compromising sustainability.
03
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved durability and fire resistance.
04
Features cross-laminated timber panels that provide both aesthetic appeal and strength.
05
Includes interstitial spaces designed to promote informal community interactions.
The Lake Mývatn Community House is an architectural project designed to serve as a multifunctional space for the local community near the scenic Lake Mývatn in Iceland. This design combines sustainable building practices with a unique structural form that reflects the surrounding landscape. The primary function of the community house is to facilitate various activities, including workshops, community meetings, and recreational areas for both adults and children. The design promotes social interaction while maintaining an inclusive and accessible environment for all users.

The building incorporates a central communal area surrounded by personalized spaces that cater to diverse community needs. The layout promotes an intuitive flow, allowing users to navigate seamlessly between different areas of the building. This spatial organization encourages social engagement and fosters a sense of community among visitors. Additionally, the integration of outdoor spaces, such as gardens and playgrounds, enhances the connection to nature, making the community house a holistic environment for gathering.

Architectural Form and Materiality
One key feature of the Lake Mývatn Community House is its distinctive circular form, which not only creates an aesthetically pleasing silhouette but also optimizes sun exposure and natural ventilation. This design approach reflects the natural contours of the Icelandic terrain, emphasizing harmony between the building and its environment. The use of recycled concrete for the structural foundation and walls enhances durability while minimizing environmental impact. Timber is employed for both structural and aesthetic purposes, imparting warmth and complementing the natural surroundings.

The extensive use of glazing in the design allows for abundant natural light and affords panoramic views of the lake and surrounding landscape. This transparency blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, ensuring that occupants remain connected to their environment throughout the day. The rooftop is designed with a weather-resistant membrane that allows for unique geometric shapes, further imitating the landform of the area.

Functional Spaces and Community Engagement
The interior of the Lake Mývatn Community House is arranged to enhance community engagement and support various functions. The central space is designed for events and gatherings, with high ceilings and flexible seating arrangements that can accommodate diverse activities. Adjacent to this area, dedicated spaces for children's activities and workshops are provided, ensuring that the facility is family-friendly and caters to different age groups.

Outdoor spaces are equally significant, incorporating garden areas and a playground that encourage interaction with the surrounding ecosystem. These outdoor features not only provide recreational opportunities but also serve as an educational tool for promoting environmental awareness.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and innovative ideas that define the Lake Mývatn Community House, explore the project presentation to fully appreciate the thoughtful design decisions and their implications for community engagement and sustainability.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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