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Dark Stone Plaster and Thermal Isolation in a Community Residence by the Lake

Author:
Jaime Cubero zapata
Dark Stone Plaster and Thermal Isolation in a Community Residence by the Lake

Project in-detail

Constructed with dark stone plaster and thermal insulation, the residence integrates seamlessly into the Mývatn landscape while providing communal and private spaces for inhabitants seeking both connection and solitude.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with dark stone plaster to blend with the landscape.
02
Utilizes thermal insulation to enhance energy efficiency.
03
Design accommodates both communal and private living experiences.
04
Incorporates a water management system for sustainable practices.
05
Features strategic openings that connect interior spaces to natural views.

The design is located in Mývatn, northern Iceland. It explores the ideas of liberation and the release of personal burdens. The overall concept emphasizes the relationship between people and their surroundings. By integrating communal spaces with private areas, the design encourages social interaction while also promoting personal retreat. The architecture connects inhabitants to nature, creating a comforting environment.

Balancing Community and Privacy

The layout effectively accommodates different group sizes. Areas are designated to foster community interactions while providing spaces for privacy. Important features include a library, multipurpose rooms, and shared bathrooms. These spaces are arranged thoughtfully to support both collective and individual needs. Module 1 is designed for three to five people, while Module 2 can host up to ten. This flexibility allows for various social dynamics.

Integration with Nature

There is a strong focus on connecting indoor spaces with the natural landscape. The design invites residents to interact with the beautiful surroundings of Mývatn. This connection enhances the living experience, making it feel more meaningful. The architecture encourages inhabitants to engage with both the building and the environment, blurring the lines between them.

Sustainable Systems and Materiality

Efficient systems for water and waste management are part of the design. A pumping mechanism transports waste from the individual modules to biodigesters, promoting responsible usage of resources. The building utilizes materials like thermal insulation, dark stone plaster, and structural wood. These choices contribute to the durability of the structure while ensuring that it complements the surrounding landscape.

The architecture highlights effective spatial configurations that combine functionality with comfort. Each detail is considered carefully to enhance interactions between inhabitants and their environment. Natural light and textures play across surfaces, creating an inviting atmosphere that enriches daily living experiences.

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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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