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Circular Timber Structure Emphasizing Community Engagement and Sustainability

Authors:
Bartłomiej Szczyrk, Martyna Kotulek, Maksymilian Benek
Circular Timber Structure Emphasizing Community Engagement and Sustainability

Project in-detail

A circular timber structure integrates sustainability and community interaction, serving as a multifunctional center for local residents and travelers in the scenic landscape of Lake Mývatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Integrates a circular design to promote community interaction.
02
Constructed using CO2-efficient timber for environmental sustainability.
03
Features large windows to enhance the connection with the natural landscape.
04
Includes multifunctional spaces tailored for both locals and travelers.
05
Serves as a central hub for cultural events and product exchanges.

The Lake Mývatn Community Center is located in the picturesque landscape of Iceland. Designed to support both waste management and community activities, the center aims to foster interaction among people. Its circular shape connects the structure to the surrounding environment, making the design both practical and comforting for its users. The project highlights a commitment to functionality, ensuring that each space serves a specific purpose and enhances the overall experience of the occupants.

Design Concept

The central idea behind the design is that architecture provides shelter and fosters connection. The circular form of the center encourages inclusion while reflecting the organic shapes found in nature. This design approach helps create a sense of safety and warmth, inviting people to gather and engage with one another.

Spatial Organization

Inside the center, the layout is carefully arranged to accommodate various functions. It includes a greenhouse, social rooms complete with a kitchen, and facilities like showers and toilets for travelers. Ample storage areas, an information point, and a space for exhibitions further enhance the versatility of the center. This thoughtful design makes it a valuable resource for both local residents and visitors passing through the area.

Material Consideration

Sustainability plays a vital role in the center's construction. CO2-efficient timber is selected as the primary material, which supports environmental goals and aligns with modern building practices. The use of timber not only connects the center to its natural surroundings but also contributes to creating a warm and inviting atmosphere inside.

Design Integration

Large windows feature prominently throughout the building, allowing for generous amounts of natural light. These windows help to connect the interior spaces with the external landscape of Lake Mývatn. This connection emphasizes the beauty of the surrounding nature and enhances the comfort of those inside. Users can enjoy views of the landscape, reinforcing the relationship between the community center and its environment.

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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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competition now

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