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Circular Gathering Space With Prefabricated Wooden Segments In A Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Maurice Bley, Jean-Claude Welter
Circular Gathering Space With Prefabricated Wooden Segments In A Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against a barren volcanic landscape, the circular structure incorporates prefabricated wooden segments and self-sufficient energy systems, providing a functional gathering space that invites visitors to connect with the stunning natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Circular design enhances navigation and orientation within a shifting landscape.
02
Prefabricated wooden segments allow for efficient and rapid assembly on-site.
03
Geothermal energy systems provide sustainable heating and reduce environmental impact.
04
Large glazing in sleeping cabins offers unobstructed views of the northern lights.
05
Integration of footbridges connects visitors to the surrounding volcanic terrain.

The design features a circular building located within a barren volcanic landscape, acting as a compass that connects the structure to its geographic setting. It is intended to engage visitors with spaces like a coffee shop, visitor center, offices, storage, and sleeping cabins. The elevated design and orientation are meant to foster a functional relationship between the building and its environment.

Modular Construction

The project employs a modular construction approach, using 52 wooden segments that can be prefabricated off-site. This improves efficiency in construction time and cost, as the pieces can be easily assembled once delivered. The foundations utilize prefabricated concrete elements, reducing the need for extensive groundwork. A steel framework supports the wooden segments, ensuring the structure is stable and durable.

Sustainability Strategies

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design. The building aims to operate independently by incorporating geothermal energy for its heating needs. It also plans to use solar panels for hot water and photovoltaic systems to generate electricity. In addition, a cistern is included for wastewater management, showing an awareness of environmental concerns and resource conservation.

Sleep Cabins

The design also includes six sleeping cabins meant for accommodating tourists. These cabins have large wall and roof windows that allow ample natural light and provide views of the night sky, including the northern lights. Each cabin is compact at 10 square meters and features a private outdoor area of 11 square meters, encouraging interaction with the natural surroundings.

The circular layout not only serves its expressive purpose but also establishes a framework that can adapt to future expansions, enhancing its role within the landscape.

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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

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