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Geological Integration Through Extrusions and Mound Features

Author:
Stephen Mccann
Geological Integration Through Extrusions and Mound Features

Project in-detail

Emerging from the Hverfjall landscape, the design incorporates extrusions and mound features that enhance geological awareness while providing a functional lookout for hikers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geological features are highlighted through targeted extrusions and forms.
02
The design encourages engagement with the existing topography.
03
Public and private spaces are created through innovative spatial organization.
04
Burial of elements acknowledges the geological history of Hverfjall.
05
Viewing platforms provide multiple vantage points for landscape appreciation.

The Hverfjall Lookout Point project is located in a remarkable geological landscape, aiming to connect visitors with the natural features of Hverfjall. The design incorporates elements that extend the existing topography, allowing users to engage with the rich geological history of the area. By blending architecture with the landscape, the project fosters a unique experience that emphasizes exploration and awareness of the site.

Mound

The Mound functions as a prominent extrusion that highlights the natural shape of the land. This element not only elevates visitors above the surrounding terrain but also encourages them to appreciate the geological features from a new perspective. Its gentle contours invite exploration, creating opportunities for unique viewpoints and interaction with the landscape.

Shard

The Shard introduces a thoughtful contrast to the natural slopes of the mound. By featuring various planes and angles, it generates visual and tactile experiences for those who visit. This design choice helps ground the structure within its environment while offering users a chance to engage with the geological aspects of the site in a way that feels inviting and approachable.

Rotate

The Rotate element effectively organizes both public and private spaces along the lookout point. This arrangement facilitates gatherings and social interactions while also providing areas for personal reflection. The balance of open and intimate spaces enhances the visitor experience. It allows for both participation in group activities and quiet moments amid the natural surroundings.

Bury

The Bury aspect connects visitors with the geological history of Hverfjall by incorporating buried shards into the landscape. This design strategy acknowledges the site’s context, providing continuity with the surrounding environment. By embracing this historical relation, the experience deepens, allowing users to connect with the geological narrative inherent to the area.

The design carefully integrates architectural forms into the landscape, resulting in a cohesive interaction between natural features and built elements. Each component works together to enhance the experience and appreciation of Hverfjall’s unique geology.

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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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