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Driftwood Facades and Volcanic Rock Foundations in Community-Centric Spaces

Driftwood Facades and Volcanic Rock Foundations in Community-Centric Spaces
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With driftwood facades that echo the natural landscape and volcanic rock foundations designed for durability, the structure integrates community spaces with a focus on sustainability and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Driftwood used in the facade is sourced locally, enhancing the project's connection to its environment.
02
Volcanic rock foundations provide durability suited to the harsh Icelandic climate.
03
Large glass walls maximize natural light while framing views of the natural landscape.
04
Community areas are designed to encourage social interactions among users.
05
The structure's sloped roofs are optimized for efficient snow drainage.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the design project "Reflection" aims to create a built environment that harmonizes with its natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from local architectural traditions and cultural heritage. The intent is to facilitate an interactive relationship between the structures and the landscape, effectively integrating local materials to reflect Iceland's unique geographic and cultural context.

### Spatial Strategy and Architectural Forms

The design incorporates diverse programmatic spaces, including a snow groomer garage, locker rooms, communal areas, restrooms, a terrace, and a viewing cabin. This configuration promotes community interaction while addressing the practical demands of outdoor activities prevalent in the region. The strategic placement encourages a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments, maximizing views of the landscape.

Architecturally, the project features multiple structures characterized by sloped roofs and geometric forms reminiscent of traditional Icelandic buildings. These roofs are engineered to withstand heavy snowfall while facilitating efficient drainage. Expansive glass facades enhance natural light penetration, creating inviting interior spaces and reinforcing connections to the external environment.

### Materiality and Color Palette

The selection of materials is designed to reflect local characteristics and traditions. Driftwood, utilized in the interior, connects the built environment to its natural setting. Volcanic rock serves as a primary material for the exterior walls, showcasing Iceland's geological heritage while ensuring durability. Extensive use of glass in the facades allows for unobstructed views and maximizes light entry, effectively reinforcing the conceptual theme of reflection.

The color palette draws inspiration from Iceland's northern landscapes. Deep reds echo the volcanic soil, contributing warmth to the structures, while blue tones are representative of the icy terrains and clear skies, enhancing the project's thematic alignment with nature.

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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.

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