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Concrete Canopy Overlooking Natural Hot Springs

Authors:
Li Li, Shujun Ding, Jianhui Wang, Weilin Wang
Concrete Canopy Overlooking Natural Hot Springs

Project in-detail

Set against the backdrop of Iceland's hot springs and rift valleys, the concrete structure integrates sustainable design principles with carefully crafted spaces for communal film experiences.
5 key facts about this project
01
Concrete construction designed to withstand Iceland's harsh climate.
02
Canopy structure allows natural light while minimizing wind exposure.
03
Integration of indoor and outdoor environments enhances user experience.
04
Distinct design inspired by local geological features like rift valleys.
05
Multi-use facility housing exhibition spaces and a movie hall.

The Child of Nature sits in the captivating landscape of Iceland, surrounded by dramatic geological features like a rift valley and hot spring caves. It serves as a film museum that connects architecture with the natural world. The design concept reflects a vision of the building emerging from the earth itself, creating a strong presence that resonates with the characteristics of the site while celebrating the rich tradition of Icelandic cinema.

Form and Function

The design emphasizes sustainability by optimizing the use of natural resources. The building is oriented to maximize sunlight, which helps reduce the impact of wind and minimizes snow buildup. Each of these elements plays a role in improving the building's efficiency and establishes a connection to the landscape that enhances the overall experience.

Community Focus

With both a movie hall and a gathering space, the building invites people to come together. This dual functionality not only allows for various cultural events but also encourages social interaction among visitors. The thoughtful layout creates a flow between inside and outside, enriching the experience and connecting users to the site’s natural beauty.

Material Considerations

The project features several specific materials chosen for their utility and durability. The roof consists of a fine aggregate concrete protective layer, a low-grade mortar isolation layer, a waterproof layer, a thermal insulation layer, and a reinforced concrete roof slab. Each material is selected to withstand local climate conditions, providing strength and longevity to the structure.

The design reflects Icelandic identity while offering a contemporary interpretation of traditional forms. Light and shadow play a critical role in the overall composition, guiding visitors through the space and creating an atmosphere that invites exploration and engagement with the 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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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