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Crystallization-Inspired Community Hub Featuring Phenocrysts and Basalt Elements

Authors:
Kan Nagasawa, Riku Miyahara, Haruka Uraji
Crystallization-Inspired Community Hub Featuring Phenocrysts and Basalt Elements

Project in-detail

Inspired by the natural phenomenon of phenocrysts, the design incorporates a circular form and basalt features to create a community hub that fosters interaction and connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the crystallization process of phenocrysts, informing the architectural form and layout.
02
Features an open center that enhances community interaction and engagement with nature.
03
Utilizes basalt elements to mirror the local geological context and landscape.
04
Omnidirectional views allow for dynamic perspectives of the surrounding environment.
05
Zoning is carefully planned for distinct user experiences catering to residents and visitors.

Set against the rugged landscape of Iceland, the design draws inspiration from the island's unique geological features. The structure takes the form of a circle, reflecting the characteristics of phenocrysts found in volcanic rocks. Functionally, it accommodates both residents and visitors, creating a space that promotes interaction and engagement with the natural environment.

Conceptual Framework

The design focuses on the theme of crystallization, mirroring the geological processes that produce the basalt formations typical of the region. By utilizing a circular shape, the structure encourages a strong visual and physical connection to the landscape. The open center serves as a communal area, fostering a sense of togetherness while inviting users to explore the surroundings.

Spatial Organization

Zoning is a critical aspect of the design, featuring dedicated areas for sightseers, local residents, and private gardens. This thoughtful distribution supports a sense of community while offering diverse spaces for activities. The arrangement allows for both social interactions and private moments, ensuring that the needs of different users are met while respecting the natural setting.

Light and Atmosphere

Light plays an important role in shaping the experience of the space. The design is carefully considered to maximize natural light, creating a dynamic relationship between indoor and outdoor environments. The combination of the open center and circular form enhances the play of light and shadow, especially during the unique seasonal changes in Iceland. This approach not only provides shelter but also enriches the sensory experience for those who occupy it.

The architecture is a thoughtful response to its environment, balancing built form with natural elements. It captures both the essence of its surroundings and the changing qualities of light. The design encourages a meaningful connection to Iceland's remarkable 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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