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Geothermal Integration with Polycarbonate Glazing and Natural Stone Amidst Iceland's Scenic Landscape

Authors:
Felipe Lombardo, Aguilar Maria victoria, Pinyol Gabriel ezequiel
Geothermal Integration with Polycarbonate Glazing and Natural Stone Amidst Iceland's Scenic Landscape

Project in-detail

Combining polycarbonate glazing and natural stone to harmonize with Myvatn's geothermal landscape, the facility offers visitors a unique vantage point to explore and engage with the Icelandic scenery while enjoying a variety of amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The facility incorporates polycarbonate glazing to enhance natural light while providing sweeping views of the Myvatn landscape.
02
Natural stone elements are integrated into the design, allowing for seamless blending with the surrounding geology.
03
A bent A-frame structure creates distinctive architectural lines that reflect the region's topography.
04
Sustainable materials, including lightweight insulation and reinforced concrete, are used to minimize the building’s ecological footprint.
05
Strategically placed viewing platforms promote interaction with the landscape, encouraging visitors to connect with the natural environment.
The architectural project located in the Myvatn region of Iceland is a multifaceted facility designed to enhance the visitor experience in one of the country’s most visually stunning landscapes. This project symbolizes a harmonious connection between nature and architecture, creating a space that encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings while providing essential services for tourism. The facility stands as a testament to a design ethos that prioritizes ecological sensitivity and aesthetic integration within the natural environment, fostering a sense of tranquility and reflection.

At its core, the project serves several functions, including exhibition areas, a café, office spaces, and viewing platforms. These components are meticulously organized, allowing for seamless movement throughout the facility. The design considers visitor flow, facilitating an intuitive journey through various experiences. Each space within the facility is designed to not only accommodate specific uses but also to offer panoramic vistas of the surrounding landscape, making the natural environment an integral part of the experience.

The overall form of the facility is characterized by gentle, rounded shapes that reflect the undulating topography of the Icelandic terrain. This approach is significant as it softens the visual impact of the buildings within the context of sweeping natural vistas. The expansive use of polycarbonate glazing allows for an abundance of natural light, creating bright and inviting interiors while maintaining a connection with the outdoor environment. The transparency of the materials used throughout the project blurs the boundaries between interior and exterior, fostering an immersive experience for visitors.

The project demonstrates a thoughtful selection of materials, combining reinforced concrete for durability and stability with lightweight insulation systems crucial for energy efficiency in such a challenging climate. The use of ceramic flooring ensures that high-traffic areas are both functional and easy to maintain. Additionally, natural stone is incorporated into the landscaping to create a seamless transition between built structures and the surrounding geological features, emphasizing a respect for local materials and contexts.

One of the unique design approaches is the facilitation of social interaction through strategically placed common areas. These spots are designed to encourage communication and gathering, integrating the social aspect of visiting a tourist destination. The project embraces the principles of sustainable architecture, promoting environmental stewardship and a reduced ecological footprint. It achieves this by not only using sustainable materials but also incorporating features such as green roofs and energy-efficient systems that align with the overall design philosophy.

The visual language of the project reflects Iceland's dramatic landscapes, emphasizing a minimalist aesthetic that prioritizes function without sacrificing beauty. This is evident in the careful consideration given to architectural details such as the transitions between different materials and the symmetry that complements the surrounding environment. The interplay of light and shadow across the curves of the building throughout different times of the day adds an organic quality to the architecture, inviting visitors to appreciate both the built environment and the breathtaking natural vistas.

For those interested in exploring the intricacies of this innovative project, a deeper examination of the architectural plans, sections, and designs will provide additional insights into the thoughtful architectural ideas that underpin this facility. The balance of utility and aesthetics showcases the inherent beauty of architectural design while reinforcing the importance of contextuality within the Icelandic landscape. Interested readers are encouraged to delve into the presentation of the project for a more comprehensive understanding of its architectural significance and design details.
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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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