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Elevated Ice Block Installation Amidst Natural Greenery

Authors:
Dragos Pirvan, MIHAI PIRVAN
Elevated Ice Block Installation Amidst Natural Greenery

Project in-detail

An ice block-inspired sculptural installation rises above a lush garden, creating a sustainable community hub that merges natural elements with multifunctional spaces for wellness and recreation.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design draws inspiration from the shape of an egg, symbolizing life and renewal.
02
The central garden employs a climate-responsive irrigation system that recycles water efficiently.
03
A sculptural ice block installation serves as a visually striking partition and climate awareness statement.
04
Vegetation choices promote biodiversity while minimizing maintenance requirements.
05
Photovoltaic cells integrated into the structure contribute to energy efficiency and sustainability.

Biotopia aims to blend built environments with the natural world in an innovative way. Set in a landscape rich with greenery, the design centers around a vibrant garden that acts as the focal point of the overall layout. Surrounding this garden, a variety of facilities such as a lobby, reception area, restaurant, bar, accommodation, multimedia room, yoga garden, and spa are organized to enhance accessibility and interactions among users. The approach emphasizes sustainability and ecological balance, creating spaces that are environmentally friendly.

Form and Function

The design takes inspiration from the shape of an egg, which symbolizes life and renewal. This rounded form allows natural light to enter from several angles, enriching the interior experience. The egg shape serves as a protective barrier while offering a strong visual link between human life and the surrounding ecology.

Garden and Landscaping

At the heart of the design, the garden is filled with low-rise vegetation, shrubs, and a selection of trees, which could include fruit-bearing and decorative varieties. This garden plays an essential role in maximizing exposure to sunlight, promoting a lively ecosystem within the project. The integration of these natural elements creates a calming atmosphere while significantly reducing the need for irrigation.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is a key element throughout the design. An irrigation system inspired by natural plant mechanisms optimizes water use, ensuring that various plant life can thrive with minimal resources. There is a focus on creating a self-sustaining water recycling system where the initial irrigation water circulates, reinforcing the commitment to environmental responsibility. The inclusion of photovoltaic cells also contributes to energy efficiency, aligning with the project’s ecological goals.

Artistic Expression

Among the notable features is a sculptural installation that resembles an ice block suspended over a furnace. This striking piece acts as both a visual marker and a reminder of climate change, prompting viewers to reflect on the relationship between human actions and the environment. It serves to define spaces within the building while engaging users in discussions on sustainability and ecological awareness.

In the central garden, a blend of low-rise plant species creates an inviting space for both relaxation and social interaction. This thoughtfully designed area emphasizes a deep connection between architecture and nature, enhancing the overall environment while offering moments of tranquility.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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