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Gabion Walls and Reclaimed Wood Create a Sustainable Community Hub in an Unique Landscape

Author:
Julia Barashkov
Gabion Walls and Reclaimed Wood Create a Sustainable Community Hub in an Unique Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted from gabion walls and reclaimed wood, the community hub seamlessly integrates into Dimmuborgir's unique landscape while promoting sustainable practices and fostering social interactions among visitors.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gabion walls utilize local soil and gravel, enhancing both structural stability and environmental integration.
02
The design features extensive natural light through strategic skylights, minimizing artificial lighting needs.
03
A winter garden promotes local biodiversity, providing a space for education about native flora.
04
Reclaimed wood is employed throughout the interior, emphasizing sustainability and reducing waste.
05
The café operates on a zero-waste principle, composting organic materials and sourcing food locally.
The architectural project set in Dimmuborgir integrates with its environment, reflecting the geological characteristics of the region. Designed to resemble a rock formation, the structure embodies a philosophy of harmony between built and natural spaces. The project functions as a multifunctional community hub, offering spaces for social interaction, dining, and education about the local ecology.

The building’s primary components include a café that promotes sustainable practices, lounge areas, exhibition spaces, and a winter garden. Each part of the design is intentionally crafted to enhance user experience while minimizing environmental impact. The use of local materials such as gabion walls, reclaimed wood, and engraved concrete reinforces the connection to the geography, ensuring that the architecture respects and incorporates its context.

Sustainability is a cornerstone of this design, with an emphasis on zero-waste operations and local sourcing. The café utilizes local produce and implements composting initiatives, aligning with contemporary ecological practices. This operational philosophy not only supports local agriculture but also aims to educate visitors on sustainable consumption.

Emphasis on natural light permeates the design, with strategically placed skylights and expansive windows maximizing sunlight while providing panoramic views of Dimmuborgir’s landscape. This feature contributes to energy efficiency by reducing reliance on artificial lighting. The integration of social and communal spaces within the design fosters connection among users, encouraging community engagement and interaction.

The uniqueness of this project lies in its contextual design that adapts to the specific topography of Dimmuborgir. The careful selection of materials enhances aesthetics while ensuring structural integrity, presenting an architectural response that feels both timeless and relevant. The incorporation of elements such as a winter garden creates an immersive space for visitors, encouraging exploration of the local flora while providing recreational opportunities.

To gain a deeper understanding of the project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs. Each element reveals a thoughtful approach to combining environmental awareness with community-focused functionality, demonstrating a commitment to sustainable architecture in Dimmuborgir.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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