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Gabion Walls and Reclaimed Wood Unite in an Eco-Conscious Community Space

Author:
Julia Barashkov
Gabion Walls and Reclaimed Wood Unite in an Eco-Conscious Community Space

Project in-detail

Crafted from locally sourced gabion walls and embraced by reclaimed wood, the facility seamlessly blends into the stunning Dimmuborgir landscape while serving as a vibrant community hub for engagement and sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Gabion walls are designed to collect rainwater, enhancing sustainability and integrating natural water management.
02
The winter garden serves as both a habitat for local flora and an educational space for biodiversity awareness.
03
Reclaimed wood sourced from nearby forests highlights a commitment to sustainability while adding warmth to the interior.
04
Large glass facades ensure panoramic views of Dimmuborgir's unique geological landscape, seamlessly merging indoor and outdoor spaces.
05
A zero-waste policy in the café promotes eco-friendly practices, using composting for organic waste and local produce.
The architectural design project located in Dimmuborgir, Iceland represents an innovative fusion of the built environment with its natural surroundings. This facility is conceptualized around the region's unique geological features, resembling large rock formations that are native to the area. The design is centered on a strong narrative that integrates local ecological and cultural elements, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community engagement.

Functionally, the project serves as a multifaceted community facility, encompassing a café, lounge areas, a winter garden, and educational spaces. The primary goal is to create a welcoming environment that facilitates interaction among visitors and locals while respecting the site's ecological balance. Each component is thoughtfully planned to ensure it fulfills specific community needs, from providing nourishment in the café to offering spaces for relaxation and social gathering.

Key architectural elements include gabion walls constructed from local stone, which not only define the structure but also contribute to practical aspects such as rainwater management. These walls serve as an organic boundary while allowing for efficient drainage, showcasing the project’s focus on incorporating environmental considerations. Reclaimed wood is another notable material, used extensively for both structural support and aesthetic appeal. This choice reflects the design’s intention to minimize environmental impact while enhancing warmth and character within the interior spaces.

The winter garden stands out as a unique feature, designed to support local biodiversity and serve educational purposes. This space provides an opportunity for visitors to engage with the surrounding flora and learn about sustainable practices, making it an essential part of the community's educational programming. In addition, the outdoor terrace offers seating that is shielded from prevailing winds by gabion structures, allowing for year-round use and encouraging outdoor interaction amidst the stunning backdrop of Dimmuborgir’s landscape.

Large glass windows throughout the facility ensure that natural light permeates the interior, establishing a connection with the external environment. This design approach not only enhances the living spaces but also invites the vibrant landscapes of Dimmuborgir inside, creating a seamless dialogue between architecture and nature. The juxtaposition of modern materials such as engraved concrete and traditional elements like local stone showcases the project's thoughtful blending of contemporary design with the region’s geological identity.

Moreover, the project emphasizes the importance of sustainability through a zero-waste policy in its operations. From fabric napkins to ceramic dishware in the café, each element has been selected with an eye toward reducing environmental impact. This diligence reflects a broader commitment to ecological responsibility, inherent in the architectural design and the function of the facility.

This architectural project in Dimmuborgir stands as a testament to thoughtful design and its ability to respect and enhance the environment. Its unique approaches to material selection and environmental integration not only define its relationship with the surrounding landscape but also foster a sense of community and engagement. For a comprehensive exploration of the architectural plans, sections, and other designs that shape this project, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the detailed presentation available. The innovative architectural ideas represented in this design offer valuable insights into the future of architecture that harmonizes with nature and serves community needs effectively.
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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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