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Geometric Harmony in Recycled Chipboard and Natural Wood for a Multireligious Center

Author:
Gabriele Pettinau
Geometric Harmony in Recycled Chipboard and Natural Wood for a Multireligious Center

Project in-detail

Incorporating geometric patterns and a sustainable design approach with recycled chipboard and natural wood, the multireligious center in Holmenknokken Island facilitates interfaith engagement and community connection.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes recycled chipboard for interior surfaces to enhance sustainability.
02
Incorporates geometric patterns inspired by both Islamic and Christian architectural styles.
03
Features large glass panels to maximize natural light and connect with the surrounding environment.
04
Includes multifunctional community spaces to foster engagement between diverse faiths.
05
Employs a bent A-frame design to create a unique silhouette and optimize spatial dynamics.

**Overview**

The design of a multireligious worship center located on Holmenknokken Island, Buskerud County, Norway, addresses the dialogue between Christian and Muslim communities within a multicultural framework. Acknowledging Drammen's historical narrative of diversity, the intent is to create a space that promotes coexistence and mutual respect, reflecting the region's rich cultural heritage.

**Architectural Framework**

The layout features distinct volumetric forms for the church and mosque, connected by an intermediary structure. This arrangement facilitates open spaces conducive to congregation and community interaction. The design incorporates courtyards and outdoor areas, which serve as essential components for social engagement. The varying heights of the two main volumes establish a dynamic dialogue, emphasizing individual identities within a collective narrative.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

The worship center employs a thoughtful selection of materials that underscore sustainability and aesthetics. Recycled chipboard is prominently used for interior surfaces, embodying resourcefulness. External cladding in wood contributes warmth and interacts harmoniously with Norway's natural surroundings. Glass elements are utilized to enhance natural light and foster a sense of connection between indoor and outdoor spaces, while robust concrete provides structural integrity. This material palette not only supports the design’s spatial dynamics but also reinforces the thematic intentions surrounding community and spirituality through a blend of solid and transparent elements.

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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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