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Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Wood Fortified By Sustainable Practices In A Versatile Community Hub

Authors:
Victor Lekander, Patrik Fromell
Cross-Laminated Timber And Charred Wood Fortified By Sustainable Practices In A Versatile Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing cross-laminated timber and charred wood to seamlessly blend with its Icelandic landscape, this multipurpose community hub emphasizes sustainability while offering diverse recreational opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural performance and sustainability.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for improved weather resistance and aesthetic appeal.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that mimics the surrounding landscape contours.
04
Designed with a central courtyard to foster community interaction and engagement.
05
Employs local peat insulation to optimize energy efficiency and reduce carbon footprint.

### Overview
Krafla Hills is an architectural design situated in the unique landscape of Iceland, where it integrates traditional building techniques with contemporary forms. The project draws inspiration from local cultural heritage, specifically the classic Icelandic farm and ancient royal tombs. It aims to create a functional space that can facilitate both community activities and a platform for storytelling, merging aspects of folklore with modern architectural design.

### Spatial Configuration and User Interaction
The design utilizes a cluster landscape approach that mirrors the natural contours of the surrounding terrain. The layout features a central courtyard, which connects various functional areas and encourages social interaction among users. This arrangement adapts to seasonal variations, suitable for a diverse range of activities throughout the year. The strategic placement of weather-protected entrances enhances accessibility, promoting engagement and fostering a sense of community.

### Material Sustainability
Krafla Hills employs a selection of locally sourced, recyclable materials that prioritize environmental responsibility. Key materials include stainless steel for the robust roof structure, cross-laminated timber (CLT) for its strength and aesthetic quality, and peat as a traditional insulating medium. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity, while specialized waterproofing membranes ensure durability in the harsh Icelandic climate. This careful material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability while maintaining performance and aesthetic coherence within the design.

### Architectural Characteristics
Notable architectural features of Krafla Hills include dynamic roof forms that blend seamlessly with the landscape, enhancing both visual appeal and functionality. Large openings and well-positioned glazing facilitate natural light, fostering inviting interior spaces. The project accommodates a variety of functional areas, including recreational facilities, exhibition spaces, and communal storage, addressing diverse user needs and promoting year-round engagement. The overall design aesthetic draws upon the region's folklore, contributing to the built environment's narrative significance within the local cultural context.

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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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