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Geothermal Community Hub Featuring Volcanic Stone and Double-Skin Facade

Authors:
Jose abel Espinosa dyck, María Martínez
Geothermal Community Hub Featuring Volcanic Stone and Double-Skin Facade

Project in-detail

Constructed with volcanic stone and a double-skin facade, the community hub leverages geothermal energy to create a sustainable gathering space that fosters social interaction and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic stone to enhance durability and aesthetic integration.
02
Incorporates a double-skin facade to optimize insulation and natural ventilation.
03
Utilizes a geothermal energy system for efficient heating and sustainability.
04
Features charred wooden shingles for added fire resistance and a unique texture.
05
Designed with tiered levels to promote social interaction and diverse user experiences.
The architectural project "Cráter" is located in Myvatn, Iceland, and is designed to harmonize with the surrounding volcanic landscape while serving multiple community functions. The design reflects an understanding of its geological context, drawing on the concept of volcanic craters as a metaphor for social interactions and communal experiences. The structure emphasizes sustainability through the use of local materials and technologies, making it a responsible addition to the ecological fabric of the area.

In terms of function, "Cráter" operates as a multifunctional space that includes a brewery, relaxation zones, and gathering areas. The layout promotes social interaction and community engagement, encouraging visitors to connect with one another within a narrative rooted in place. The project's spatial organization is tiered, allowing for diverse experiences as users move through different levels, each designed for specific activities, ranging from communal dining to intimate gatherings.

The unique design approaches of "Cráter" distinguish it in the context of contemporary architectural projects. The structure utilizes a double-skin facade that enhances insulation and improves energy efficiency. This innovative feature not only contributes to the building's sustainability but also encourages natural ventilation, reducing reliance on mechanical systems. Furthermore, the integration of a green roof system supports local biodiversity and contributes to thermal regulation, demonstrating a commitment to ecological stewardship.

The choice of materials in the project is carefully considered to reflect the cultural and geological characteristics of Iceland. Concrete is used for its structural properties and aesthetic alignment with local volcanic rock, while timber elements provide warmth and comfort within the interiors. Glass installations are strategically placed to foster visual connectivity to the exterior landscape, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the spaces.

Cráter is also notable for its incorporation of geothermal energy, which facilitates a passive heating system. This approach aligns with the architecture's ethos of minimizing environmental impact while providing a comfortable indoor climate. The project extends its commitment to sustainability through the inclusion of native plant species in the landscaping, enriching the ecological environment and enhancing local biodiversity.

To delve deeper into the architectural plans and sections of "Cráter," as well as explore its design ideas and specific architectural details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Engaging with these elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of the project’s strategies and outcomes.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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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