Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Curvilinear Form Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Overlooking Mývatn Lake

Author:
Chuanyu Dai
Curvilinear Form Crafted From Cross-Laminated Timber Overlooking Mývatn Lake

Project in-detail

Curvilinear ceilings of cross-laminated timber complement panoramic views of Mývatn Lake, creating a welcoming space dedicated to wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear roof design mimics the surrounding mountain landscape.
02
Cross-laminated timber structure enhances sustainability and warmth.
03
Panoramic glazing provides unobstructed views of Lake Mývatn.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer weather resistance and aesthetic value.
05
Integrated community spaces encourage social interaction and local engagement.

## Overview

Located near the Hverfjall volcano and Lake Mývatn in Iceland, the project integrates architectural design with the surrounding natural landscape. It serves as a multifaceted cultural and recreational center, designed to encourage interaction with both the environment and community. The building’s form and materials reflect local geological features and recreational activities, promoting an immersive experience that highlights the beauty of its setting.

## Spatial Dynamics and Structure

The design features an innovative roof that mimics the varying topographies of the Icelandic mountains, serving not only aesthetic purposes but also functional ones such as effective water management and natural light optimization. The elevations exhibit a thoughtful composition of volumes, transitioning from a lower café area to a taller spa section. This arrangement ensures a visual continuity with the landscape, enhancing integration with the natural surroundings.

## Material Selection and Sustainability

Material choices emphasize both sustainability and a sense of place. Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) is employed for its structural and environmental benefits, while sealed insulating glass allows for expansive views and energy efficiency. The exterior is protected with aluminum coatings, and robust concrete is used for structural elements. The interior features warm plywood board and textured stone to create an inviting atmosphere. Overall, the building's material palette reflects the organic qualities of the landscape, fostering a connection between users and their environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`

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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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
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 17,725 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