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Geothermal Heating and Cross-Laminated Timber Integrate in a Community Hub

Author:
Yu-chi Lin
Geothermal Heating and Cross-Laminated Timber Integrate in a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing geothermal heating and Cross-Laminated Timber, the facility creates a sustainable community hub in Iceland that seamlessly connects residents and visitors with the unique landscape of Lake Myvatn.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geothermal heating for energy efficiency.
02
Incorporates Cross-Laminated Timber for structural integrity.
03
Features a greenhouse to promote ecological education.
04
Designed to manage snow melt and reuse for irrigation.
05
Reflects the volcanic landscape in its architectural form.

The Lake Myvatn Community House is located in Iceland, a place defined by its volcanic landscape. The building serves two main purposes: it operates as a visitor center for tourists and also acts as a community center for residents. The design takes inspiration from the natural contrast between ice and fire, reflecting the unique geological features of the area while providing functional and inviting spaces.

Building Form and Function
The layout of the building divides it into two significant areas. The visitor center is designed to inform and engage tourists about the natural beauty and history of Lake Myvatn. On the other hand, the community center serves to bring local residents together, facilitating social interactions and activities. A greenhouse is included in the design, promoting ecological education and providing a shared space for various gatherings.

Spatial Organization
Circulation within the building is carefully planned to encourage movement between the visitor center and community center. This arrangement allows for easy access and promotes engagement among users. The clarity of the layout recognizes the different needs of tourists and locals alike, creating a cohesive atmosphere that supports a strong sense of community.

Materiality and Sustainable Solutions
Cross-Laminated Timber (CLT) serves as the primary structural element, offering both durability and warmth. This material choice aligns with a commitment to sustainability. Additional wood elements enhance the natural feel of the interior spaces. For the exterior, polycarbonate sheet is utilized, allowing natural light to fill the building while also representing the themes of ice and fire.

Geothermal heating systems play a critical role in energy efficiency. Hot air from underground sources is channeled through small pipes beneath glass surfaces, which helps to manage snow when it falls. The resulting melted snow is collected and used for irrigation. This practical solution demonstrates a focus on environmental responsibility while enhancing the building's overall functionality.

The dynamic relationship between ice and fire is visually represented on the building's exterior. Sunlight interacts with the polycarbonate sheet, casting ever-changing patterns that shift from day to night. This effect adds a visual interest to the structure and serves as a reminder of the natural forces that shape the landscape of Lake Myvatn.

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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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