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Circular Form Integrating Glass and Timber in a Sustainable Community Space

Authors:
Xiang Ye, Shitong Yu, Ryan Sun, Tory Wang
Circular Form Integrating Glass and Timber in a Sustainable Community Space

Project in-detail

The circular layout, characterized by extensive use of glass and reinforced concrete, establishes a harmonious connection with the landscape, serving as a versatile community space in Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design optimizes natural light and views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Extensive glass elements enhance transparency and reduce energy consumption.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity while minimizing carbon footprint.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and weather resistance specific to the local climate.
05
Integrated green spaces promote biodiversity and improve indoor air quality.

The Littorina project is an architectural design located in Iceland, characterized by its responsive integration with the surrounding landscape. This project emphasizes a connection between indoor and outdoor environments, catering to both functional needs and aesthetic values. It operates primarily as a multi-purpose space that accommodates community gatherings, recreational activities, and dining while fostering engagement with the natural topography.

The design utilizes a circular architectural layout that allows for seamless flow between different areas. This form not only maximizes views of the adjacent lake but also encourages movement and interaction among users. Interior and exterior spaces are interconnected, enhancing the sensory experience and inviting natural elements within the built environment.

Natural materials are a defining aspect of the project. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while extensive use of glass ensures transparency, inviting natural light and framing the surrounding landscape. Timber elements are thoughtfully added to impart warmth to the interior, offering a tactile contrast to the concrete and glass.

Innovative Design Approaches

The Littorina project distinguishes itself through its adaptation to the site's unique geographical features. The circular form not only echoes the natural landscape but also facilitates passive climate control strategies. This innovative approach reduces reliance on artificial heating and cooling systems, demonstrating a commitment to sustainability.

Strategic placement of windows serves both aesthetic and functional purposes. Larger glass panels are oriented towards the lake, providing vistas that enhance the user experience while optimizing natural light throughout the day. Furthermore, the inclusion of green spaces within the layout contributes to cooling and improving air quality, reinforcing an eco-centered design philosophy.

Structural Organization and Community Focus

The project is meticulously organized to enhance community interaction. Common areas, such as dining spaces and lounges, are centrally located to encourage socialization while remaining visually connected to outdoor elements. The design also includes provisions for adaptable spaces to accommodate varying group sizes and functions, ensuring versatility in use.

Integrating water features within the project amplifies the overall sense of tranquility, effectively reflecting the nearby natural bodies of water. This design decision adds another layer to the sensory experience, inviting occupants to engage more deeply with their environment.

For further insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and underlying architectural ideas of the Littorina project, an exploration of the detailed project presentation is encouraged. This will provide a comprehensive understanding of its design principles and innovative solutions.

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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
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