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Concrete Gallery Nestled in the Hverfjall Landscape

Author:
Janez Flerin
Concrete Gallery Nestled in the Hverfjall Landscape

Project in-detail

Set against the impressive backdrop of Hverfjall, a concrete gallery descends into the earth, inviting visitors to engage with curated exhibitions while experiencing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape from an inviting café space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Locally designed seating enhances the café's connection to regional craftsmanship.
02
The entrance features a linear beam of light, creating a unique welcoming experience.
03
The underground path leads visitors through a curved gallery optimized for various exhibitions.
04
Concrete walls provide structural support while reflecting the surrounding geological context.
05
Large panoramic windows frame views, integrating the interior with the natural landscape.

The design near the Hverfjall Volcano emphasizes a connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Located at the base of this notable geological feature, the structure is both functional and engaging. It offers visitors an experience that integrates nature with essential activities. The design concept is rooted in transparency and fluidity, inviting interaction and exploration.

Nature-Inspired Entry
As visitors approach, they notice a linear beam of light indicating the entrance. This beam draws attention and suggests a welcoming atmosphere. The entry is framed with glass walls, giving the impression of open space. Nature becomes part of the building, encouraging visitors to connect with the stunning views of the landscape while remaining sheltered from the wind and rain.

Underground Pathway
Once inside, a descending path leads deeper into the earth. This path adds an element of curiosity, allowing visitors to explore the gallery space. The design features a curved gallery that serves different exhibition needs. Concrete walls are carefully placed to provide support while offering a tangible connection to the soil and rock surrounding the area.

Café as Central Gathering Point
At the upper level, a coffee shop acts as a social center. It includes seating crafted by local designers. Warm lighting creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The café's location provides a vantage point for visitors to pause and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.

Environmental Integration
The design highlights a thoughtful relationship with the Hverfjall Volcano. Concrete is utilized not just for strength but also to reflect the textures found in the landscape. Each area in the structure offers a different perspective of the natural world outside. Windows frame views of the scenery, making them an essential part of daily life in the building.

A large panoramic window invites light and views into the interior, allowing visitors to feel as if they are part of 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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