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Curved Insulated Concrete Walls Creating Connection to Natural Creek

Authors:
Duncan Fok, Ji haw Chi, Shi chao philip Lin, Oi yi Leung
Curved Insulated Concrete Walls Creating Connection to Natural Creek

Project in-detail

Curved insulated concrete walls rise to capture light and mist from the creek, creating a dynamic interior space that fosters engagement with nature while serving as a gallery and community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved insulated concrete walls enhance thermal efficiency and durability against harsh Icelandic weather.
02
A large glass wall provides panoramic views of the creek while maximizing natural light throughout the interior.
03
Water mist from the creek envelops the central staircase, merging indoor and outdoor experiences.
04
Local plants are cultivated inside to celebrate biodiversity and connect visitors with the native ecosystem.
05
The design includes playful elements like a slide along the walking path to engage families and children.

The Geothermal Hut by the Creek is located in the unique volcanic landscape of Iceland. It showcases the region's geothermal features while addressing the challenges of local weather and environmental conditions. The design focuses on a tent-like structure that allows the building to blend with the surroundings and adapt to changing climates.

Geometric Form and Spatial Organization

The structure is built with two thick, curved insulated concrete walls. This form provides durability against the island’s harsh weather while also offering thermal mass through the heavy concrete floor. The layout is designed to create a warm and inviting atmosphere suitable for gallery exhibitions. A large glass wall faces the creek, ensuring ample natural light and offering unobstructed views of the picturesque environment outside.

Interior Features and User Engagement

Inside, a central spiral staircase inspired by the aurora captures attention and invites exploration. This design element not only connects different levels of the hut but also brings in elements of nature through local plants and fruits. Water from the creek creates a mist around the staircase, drawing visitors into an experience that merges the interior with the natural world beyond.

Functional Spaces and Sustainability

The design includes several functional areas for various activities. A resting area provides a quiet retreat for visitors, while the reception area features a café that encourages social interaction. The gallery space is specifically made for art exhibitions, promoting a connection between culture and nature. Sustainability is an important focus, as the hut uses geothermal energy for heating and electricity, while an underground tank holds hot water from the creek for practical use.

Pathway and Landscape Integration

A walking path enhances access and enjoyment of the surrounding landscape. It is designed to fit with the natural features of the area, adding playful aspects such as a slide for visitors to engage with the environment. Native plants are incorporated into the landscaping to promote local ecosystems and provide ecological benefits.

The design includes water flowing down the central staircase, creating a connection to the creek. This feature invites visitors to experience the rhythm of nature while indoors, highlighting the relationship between the built space and the elements outside.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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