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Elevated Glass Structure with Modular Units and Sustainable Materials in a Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Carlos Gonzalez Arana
Elevated Glass Structure with Modular Units and Sustainable Materials in a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

An elevated steel and glass facility integrates modular units with a green roof to harmonize with La Palma's volcanic landscape, serving as a hub for research and education on volcanic activity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated structure minimizes ecological impact and preserves native vegetation.
02
Modular units enable flexible reconfiguration for diverse research activities.
03
Extensive glass facades create visual connectivity with the volcanic landscape.
04
Green roof enhances insulation and promotes local biodiversity.
05
Direct access to geological features facilitates on-site research and education.

### Overview

The Volcanological Center in La Palma functions as a research and educational facility dedicated to the study and interpretation of volcanic activity, particularly in response to the Tajogaite volcano's eruption in 2021. Located in the Canary Islands, the center is designed to harmonize with the region's unique geological formations resulting from recent volcanic activity. The intent is to provide an accessible platform for both scientific inquiry and public engagement, enhancing understanding of volcanic processes within their natural context.

### Spatial Integration

The building's design elevates it on stilts, which preserves the original soil and vegetation of the site while minimizing ecological disruption. This raised form not only maintains the natural landscape but also offers panoramic views of surrounding lava fields and geological features. The modular layout, consisting of cubic units measuring 6x6 meters, allows for versatile spatial configurations suited for various educational and research activities. Open pathways within the structure encourage direct interaction with nearby lava tubes and crevices, facilitating an immersive experience for visitors.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Reflecting an emphasis on sustainability, the center employs a range of materials that support its functional and aesthetic goals. A steel framework provides structural support for the elevated design, while expansive glass facades allow natural light to permeate the interior, fostering a connection between the indoors and the environment outside. The inclusion of a green roof enhances insulation and biodiversity, further demonstrating a commitment to low-impact construction. Concrete walls offer additional structural integrity in critical areas. The project's material choices exemplify a balance of durability and environmental consciousness, addressing both performance and ecological responsibilities.

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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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