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Fluid Forms and Paraffin Light in Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Patrick Kolodziejczyk
Fluid Forms and Paraffin Light in Icelandic Landscape
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Inspired by the transformation of Icelandic volcanic landscapes, the design employs paraffin wax to create fluid forms that enhance light interaction, serving as an adaptable space for communal gatherings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes paraffin wax to create dynamic light interaction within the interior.
02
Features 5083-H34 aluminium for enhanced corrosion resistance in a coastal environment.
03
Design reflects Icelandic geological processes, merging solid and fluid forms.
04
Incorporates geothermal heating methods to maintain energy efficiency.
05
Encourages community interaction through adaptable and flowing spatial arrangements.

"LJÓSKER Í NÓTT" (Lanterns in the Night) is a design that connects to the natural landscape of Iceland. Set in an area shaped by volcanic activity, the project explores the idea of solid forms transitioning into fluid structures. Organic shapes and flowing lines characterize the design, creating connections between indoor spaces and the environment outside.

Conceptual Framework

The concept derives from the transformation processes found in the Icelandic landscape, where lava changes from solid rock to a more fluid state. This change serves as a metaphor for adaptability in design. The aim is to create spaces that respond to environmental shifts, encouraging a relationship with nature that feels genuine and inviting.

Materiality

Material selection plays an essential role in achieving the design goals. Paraffin wax is used for its low melting point and ability to change state, allowing for an interesting play of light inside the spaces. Additionally, 5083-H34 aluminium alloy is chosen for its resistance to corrosion and sufficient strength, ensuring that the structure remains durable while maintaining visual appeal.

Spatial Configuration

Spatial arrangements prioritize flowing shapes and easy transitions. The design emphasizes connections between indoor and outdoor spaces, creating a network of areas that promote interaction with the landscape. The way light enters these spaces enhances the experience, making it feel alive and responsive to the changing environment.

The design highlights the relationship between light and surfaces made of paraffin wax, drawing attention to the architectural details that reflect the natural environment. Each moment within the space reveals something new, echoing the ever-changing quality of the surrounding Icelandic glaciers.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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