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Geothermal Retreat Framed by Cross-Laminated Timber and Plywood in Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Florencia Alleges, Agustín Fernández
Geothermal Retreat Framed by Cross-Laminated Timber and Plywood in Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Framed by cross-laminated timber and plywood, the design harmonizes with the volcanic landscape while incorporating geothermal heating to serve as a visitor center that fosters connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed by a unique dual-triangle layout.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber and plywood materials.
03
Incorporates geothermal heating for energy efficiency.
04
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
05
Features a main entrance characterized by a connecting slot between volumes.

Haverfjall's Triangles is located near the Haverfjall volcano, featuring a design that connects built structures with the surrounding landscape. The layout consists of two large, offset triangles that serve distinct functions. One triangle includes private spaces while the other hosts public areas, creating a balance between comfort and openness. This arrangement helps establish a strong link between visitors and the natural environment.

Structural Design

The design utilizes two large triangles, separated yet complementing each other, to create defined areas within the space. The main entrance is marked by a large opening that connects the two parts, allowing for easy movement and flow. This thoughtful design enables visitors to transition smoothly from one area to another, enhancing their experience within the building.

Material Selection

Materials were chosen to support the overall concept and functionality of the structure. The roof is made from plywood, providing a lightweight covering that aligns well with the geometric design. Cross-laminated timber serves as the Walls, offering both stability and an inviting aesthetic. Polished concrete floors add a clean finish, supporting an efficient geothermal heating system. The foundation, made of reinforced concrete mixed with volcanic ash, ties the building to its geological background.

Environmental Considerations

The design incorporates practical features, such as wind protection and careful placement in relation to sunlight. These considerations create comfortable indoor conditions, ensuring that the building allows ample natural light while remaining energy efficient. The architecture aims to connect with its surroundings, where contrasting materials and forms contribute to a functional yet visually engaging appearance.

Large windows beneath the floating roofs frame views of the landscapes, allowing natural light to flood the interiors. This detail emphasizes the connection between the inside spaces and the outside world, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of the environment.

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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

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