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Curved Glass Facades and Recycled Wood Create a Community Space Embracing Glacial Inspiration

Curved Glass Facades and Recycled Wood Create a Community Space Embracing Glacial Inspiration

Project in-detail

Curved glass facades complement the use of recycled wood, creating a community space that draws inspiration from glacial forms while fostering interaction and connection among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved glass facades enhance natural light while connecting interior spaces to the landscape.
02
Recycled wood is utilized for structural and aesthetic purposes, minimizing environmental impact.
03
The bent A-frame design mirrors glacial forms, creating a distinctive profile against the skyline.
04
Flexible meeting areas adapt to various functions, promoting community interaction.
05
Strategic window placement maximizes views and invites the surrounding nature indoors.
Jökulfjót is an architectural project situated near a ski lift in Iceland, designed to reflect the characteristics of glacial tongues. The structure embodies a strong connection between built form and environment, integrating elements inspired by the natural movement of water. By employing a C-shaped layout, the design optimizes views and light while promoting a seamless interaction with the surrounding landscape.

Sustainability is a core aspect of Jökulfjót, which uses materials chosen for their ecological impact. The incorporation of recycled wood and white concrete establishes a harmonious relationship between the structure and its natural setting. Transparent glass facades enhance the visitor experience by inviting natural light into the interior, creating a welcoming atmosphere that shifts throughout the day.

Unique Design Approaches

Jökulfjót distinguishes itself through its thoughtful integration of organic forms characteristic of glacier landscapes. This design strategy manifests in both the exterior geometry and the spatial arrangement within. Curved walls and flexible meeting areas encourage versatility and promote interaction among visitors, catering to both communal and private needs. The central fireplace serves not only as a heating element but also as a social focal point, enhancing the communal aspect of the project.

The project's positioning near a ski lift further emphasizes its accessibility, providing a functional space that serves both tourists and locals alike. This proximity encourages exploration and engagement with the surrounding natural environment, reinforcing the project's role within the community.

Spatial Organization and Materiality

The effective spatial organization within Jökulfjót supports various functions, ensuring an effortless flow between public and private areas. The use of recycled wood adds warmth to the interiors, while the white concrete offers durability and a modern aesthetic. Architectural sections showcase the design's efficiency, revealing how natural light permeates the building and enhancing user experience.

The strategic placement of windows maximizes views of the landscape, connecting occupants to the environment while creating an ongoing dialogue between inside and outside. By prioritizing sustainable practices and innovative design principles, Jökulfjót serves as a model for architecture that respects and complements its surroundings.

For those interested in understanding the intricacies of Jökulfjót, exploration of its architectural designs, plans, and sections will provide deeper insights into this unique project. Engaging with the various elements of the design allows for a more comprehensive view of the thoughtful approaches taken in its development.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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