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Circular Lookouts and Tan Tones in a Northern Icelandic Eco-Center

Authors:
Barbara Cadena hermosillo, Elizabeth Compeán michel
Circular Lookouts and Tan Tones in a Northern Icelandic Eco-Center

Project in-detail

The design incorporates circular lookouts and a subtle palette of tan tones, creating a harmonious connection to the Mývatn landscape while serving as an ecological education center and cultural space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates seven scenic lookouts to enhance visitor engagement with the landscape.
02
Features an ecological preserve that surrounds the building.
03
Employs a circular layout to promote continuous movement through the space.
04
Integrates multiple greenhouses designed for different plant conditions.
05
Utilizes a calm palette of tan tones to reflect the local environment.

Brotmark Green House is located in the Mývatn region of Northern Iceland, a place known for its remarkable natural features. The building serves both as a center for ecological education and a venue for cultural activities. Designed with an emphasis on exploration, it features a layout of paths that come together at a central point, inviting visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape while discovering the area's unique attractions.

Design Concept

The layout of Brotmark revolves around a circular design that highlights the views of the natural environment. This shape encourages movement, allowing guests to navigate effortlessly between indoor and outdoor spaces. The project includes seven observation points to promote interaction with prominent local landmarks, such as Hverfjall Volcano Crater and Mývatn Nature Baths. This thoughtful arrangement prioritizes both aesthetic enjoyment and a deeper connection to the region's ecological significance.

Spatial Organization

The upper level of the building provides key visitor facilities, including a parking lot and a drop-off area. These features ensure smooth access to the main entrance. Visitors are welcomed in the reception and information area before embarking on their journey through the site. Additionally, greenhouses located on this level support various types of plants, aligning with the center's goal of promoting ecological agriculture education.

Functional Areas

The lower level houses a Multipurpose Hall, which can accommodate a variety of events and activities. A tunnel connects this hall directly to the dining area and restroom facilities, maintaining the flow of movement within the building. A terrace extends from the dining space, offering views of the landscape and inviting outdoor interaction. The design also includes a private staff area with offices, locker rooms, and necessary support spaces to facilitate operations.

Design Detail

A calming palette of tan tones runs throughout the space, echoing the natural colors of the surrounding environment. Different textures in various areas invite exploration and touch, reinforcing the connection between the building and the Icelandic landscape. Each element of the design contributes to a cohesive experience, emphasizing awareness of the ecological context while offering a welcoming environment for visitors.

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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
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