Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Geometric Facades Crafted from Prefabricated Panels in an Icelandic Community Setting

Author:
Geometric Facades Crafted from Prefabricated Panels in an Icelandic Community Setting
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Inspired by the Krafla crater, the design utilizes prefabricated geometric panels and integrates natural materials to create a multifunctional space for community engagement and equipment maintenance in the heart of Iceland's unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes prefabricated geometric panels for efficient assembly and construction.
02
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and weather resistance.
03
Features a design inspired by the nearby Krafla crater, blending architecture with the landscape.
04
Provides dedicated aurora viewing platforms for community engagement with nature.
05
Includes an integrated equipment maintenance workshop to support operational needs.

### Overview
The IO House is located approximately 5 kilometers from the Krafla crater in Iceland. The design responds to the unique geographical features of the site and reflects the local culture, emphasizing the significance of the fishing industry. The architectural intent is centered around harmonizing the built environment with its natural surroundings while symbolically referencing the area’s identity.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The organization of spaces within the IO House prioritizes a fluid user experience, with a layout that promotes accessibility and engagement with the natural landscape. Entrances for both users and garage access are strategically positioned to streamline movement throughout the building while maintaining aesthetic coherence. Notable features include “Aurora Platforms,” which provide vantage points for observing the Northern Lights, thereby enhancing visitor interaction with the natural environment. Communal areas, such as the lobby and gallery spaces, invite social interaction and showcase local art, fostering a sense of community.

### Material Selection
The selected materials for the IO House reflect both functionality and resilience in response to the local climate. Glass façades facilitate a connection between interior spaces and the exterior, maximizing natural light. Structural elements utilize steel for flexibility and durability, supporting the building’s intricate geometrical forms. Concrete is employed for its stability and thermal mass, while wood accents within functional areas provide warmth and a connection to traditional Icelandic architecture. Precast concrete panels contribute to efficient assembly and insulation, allowing for a robust yet aesthetically pleasing structure.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in