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Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Enhanced by Geothermal Energy and Horizon Views

Authors:
Israel Leandro-flores®, Aarón josué Condemaita bonilla, Luis alfredo Velasquez carhuatocto
Cross-Laminated Timber Structure Enhanced by Geothermal Energy and Horizon Views

Project in-detail

With a captivating vertical design crafted from cross-laminated timber and enhanced by geothermal energy, the structure offers stunning panoramic views while serving as a community hub centered around wellness and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for enhanced structural efficiency and sustainability.
02
Features charred wooden shingles that promote durability while connecting to traditional building techniques.
03
Incorporates a geothermal energy system for eco-friendly heating and cooling.
04
Designed as a community hub, fostering social interaction and wellness in the local environment.
05
Offers panoramic views through strategically placed glass elements, allowing natural light to illuminate spaces.
The architectural project known as "Beacon to the Sky" is situated in Iceland and emerges as an engaging testament to the nuanced relationship between modern architecture and its cultural context. The design represents a blend of Icelandic heritage and contemporary architectural practices, showcasing a thoughtful integration of space, function, and sustainability. The structure is envisioned not only as a built form but also as a narrative that bridges the historical and the modern.

At its core, "Beacon to the Sky" serves multiple functions, offering spaces for community interaction, observation, and wellness. The central feature is a vertical tower that rises prominently, drawing inspiration from local architecture, including traditional turf houses and notable landmarks like Hallgrímskirkja. The tower's height and form reflect the dramatic Icelandic landscape, creating a striking silhouette against the backdrop of mountains and skies. This interaction between the structure and its environment is pivotal, inviting users to engage with the natural world around them.

The design is meticulously crafted with a focus on materiality that enhances both aesthetic appeal and sustainability. Key materials include reinforced concrete for structural integrity, cross-laminated timber that adds warmth, expansive glass to maximize natural light, and basalt, which ties the building to the local geology. The use of these materials not only respects the local context but also promotes environmental consciousness, aligning with contemporary architectural ideas focused on sustainability.

One of the distinctive aspects of this architectural project is its emphasis on creating internal spaces that foster community and wellness. The inclusion of a sauna area that harnesses geothermal energy showcases a deep respect for Icelandic customs, promoting a culture of well-being and socialization. The observation deck, another significant feature, is designed to offer panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, embodying the concept of connection to the landscape. These spaces are not merely functional; they are designed to enhance the user experience, encouraging interaction with both the building and its environment.

The pathways that weave through and around the project are carefully designed to guide visitors on a journey of exploration. They enable a connection between the different modules of the building, creating a cohesive flow that mirrors the organic forms found in nature. This thoughtful circulation design enhances the architectural experience, allowing visitors to navigate the space in a way that aligns with the site's natural contours.

The overall approach to "Beacon to the Sky" reflects a commitment to contextual design. It acknowledges the rich architectural history of Iceland while employing innovative strategies that address contemporary challenges. The project stands as a model for how architecture can harmoniously blend with its surroundings, encouraging both reflection and interaction. The design fosters a sense of place that resonates with the cultural and environmental narratives of Iceland, positioning itself as an important addition to the architectural landscape.

Readers interested in exploring this project further are encouraged to review the architectural plans, sections, and other design materials. Delving deeper into these details will provide valuable insights into the architectural ideas that underpin "Beacon to the Sky" and illustrate how this project exemplifies thoughtful design for a sustainable future.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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