Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Design Featuring Thermal Concrete and Biodiverse Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Author:
Aidan Brown
Curvilinear Design Featuring Thermal Concrete and Biodiverse Green Roofs in a Community-Centric Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with thermal concrete and enhanced by a biodiverse green roof, this community space integrates curvilinear forms with hydroponic gardens, fostering local engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with thick concrete walls for thermal efficiency and resilience.
02
Incorporates a biodiverse green roof to enhance local ecosystems.
03
Features hydroponic gardens integrated throughout the visitor pathways.
04
Utilizes deep exposed birch beams that add warmth and character.
05
Represents local Norse mythology through strategically placed trees.
The architectural project "Ascension" is a thoughtfully conceived design located near the Hverfall volcano and Myvatn nature baths. This project prioritizes sustainability and community interaction while blending seamlessly with the surrounding landscape. Featuring agricultural components and a variety of public spaces, it aims to enhance the visitor experience through a connection to nature and local food practices.

Integration of Agricultural Practices

"Ascension" seamlessly combines agricultural functionality with architectural design. The centerpiece of the project is a hydroponics greenhouse, which not only supplies fresh produce for the facility but also serves an educational purpose. The layout encourages visitors to engage with the growing processes, fostering an understanding of sustainable food sourcing.

Further enhancing this connection, the design incorporates pathways leading through curated gardens featuring edible plants and trees. Notably, nine trees representing Norse mythology are strategically placed, symbolizing the connection to local culture and history while serving as a visual narrative for guests.

Architectural Form and Materiality

The architectural form of "Ascension" is characterized by smooth curves and organic shapes that respond to the natural topography. The use of thick concrete walls provides thermal stability and durability, complementing the environmentally conscious approach established in the overall design. Green roofs are incorporated to enhance biodiversity while offering additional insulation.

The interior showcases deep exposed birch beams, promoting a warm atmosphere that invites exploration of the space. Wooden slat ceilings contribute to acoustical comfort and echo the rhythmic patterns found in nature, such as the Fibonacci sequence, enhancing the calming experience within the environment.

Community Engagement Spaces

The project includes multipurpose spaces designed for community gatherings, educational workshops, and social events. The dining area is deliberately positioned to provide unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape, creating a serene backdrop for meals that emphasize local produce.

The viewing deck further extends the experience by offering panoramic views of the Hverfall volcano and nearby nature baths. The integration of accessibility features ensures that the spaces are welcoming for all visitors, aligning with current equitable design standards.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and design approaches of "Ascension" reveals the deliberate strategies employed to enhance visitor interaction with both the natural environment and community practices. For more in-depth insights into this project, reviewing the architectural designs and underlying concepts is highly encouraged.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy