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Experience of Northern Lights Through Glass Facades and Geothermal Energy

Author:
Olivia He
Experience of Northern Lights Through Glass Facades and Geothermal Energy

Project in-detail

Large glass facades allow unobstructed views of the northern lights while geothermal energy and water collection systems ensure sustainable accommodation in the heart of Iceland’s Reyjadalur Valley.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large glass facades enhance natural light and provide panoramic views of the northern lights.
02
Innovative water collection systems utilize melted snow for efficient resource management.
03
A pull-out bed design maximizes space and flexibility for occupants.
04
Geothermal energy systems ensure sustainable heating and power for the facility.
05
The design incorporates a multi-functional layout that adapts to different activities and guest needs.

Nature Hub is located in Reykjavik, Iceland, in the Reyjadalur Valley. It serves as a place for visitors to stay while enjoying outdoor activities like hiking, soaking in natural hot springs, and watching the northern lights. The design focuses on flexibility, allowing the space to adapt to various uses and enhance the experience of being in nature.

Sustainable Design Principles
The building follows sustainable practices by using renewable energy sources. Solar panels and a geothermal system provide power and heating, reducing environmental impact. Water systems collect melted snow and store it under the building, while purified water is available for showers. This approach reflects careful planning and a commitment to resource management.

Functional Versatility
The interior layout supports different needs with three main functions: sleeping, hot spring bathing, and living. The design includes a pull-out bed stored within the walls, making efficient use of space. A sliding floor mechanism allows easy access to the hot spring, providing a comfortable environment for guests while maximizing usability.

Natural Integration
Large glass facades are used to bring natural light into the interior and connect it with the outside landscape. By reducing the need for artificial lighting, the design enhances the experience of seeing the northern lights from within the building. Visitors can enjoy the view at any time, day or night.

Inside, the hot springs are designed for comfort, allowing guests to relax while taking in the stunning scenery. This focus on design details creates an inviting atmosphere that draws from the natural beauty of Iceland’s surroundings, making it a unique place for visitors.

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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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