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Dynamic Curvilinear Forms With Volcanic Stone and Sustainable Materials in a Wellness Retreat

Authors:
Hussain Muffadel Zaveri, Krisha Choksi, Mehek Goel
Dynamic Curvilinear Forms With Volcanic Stone and Sustainable Materials in a Wellness Retreat

Project in-detail

Incorporating dynamic curvilinear forms and volcanic stone, the design serves as a wellness retreat that emphasizes sustainability and harmonizes with its natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Dynamic curvilinear forms emulate natural volcanic landscapes.
02
The structure utilizes volcanic stone for both aesthetic and thermal benefits.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural integrity while promoting sustainability.
04
An interactive brewing facility showcases local ingredients and culinary engagement.
05
Geothermal heating systems are integrated for energy efficiency and environmental harmony.

### Overview

Aurora's Cauldron is situated in an environment reminiscent of Iceland's volcanic landscapes, aiming to foster a strong connection between constructed spaces and natural surroundings. The intent of the design is to provide a tranquil retreat that emphasizes comfort and well-being, inviting users to engage in both individual reflection and communal interaction.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience

The layout of the facility is carefully organized to enhance functionality while offering diverse experiential zones. The ground floor features a reception area that establishes a welcoming ambiance and connects to a central lagoon, serving as a focal point for relaxation and social engagement. Private spa rooms are available for intimate experiences, while the upper floors include a relaxation lounge that encourages social interaction with panoramic views. Each area is designed to ensure a balance between personal tranquility and community connection, addressing the varied needs of users.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The material selection plays a crucial role in conveying the project's thematic focus. Concrete forms the primary structural element, echoing the textures of volcanic rock, while wood is incorporated within interior finishes to introduce warmth and a tactile connection to nature. Expansive glass installations facilitate natural light infiltration, contributing to the mental well-being of visitors. Steel provides a contemporary contrast to the organic forms, and natural stone is strategically utilized to reinforce the geological inspiration. Additionally, sustainable features such as a solar canopy are integrated into the design, enhancing energy efficiency while ensuring user comfort.

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

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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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