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Hempcrete Walls and Timber Trusses in a Geothermal Thermal Oasis

Authors:
Jimi Mckay, Ana Claver García
Hempcrete Walls and Timber Trusses in a Geothermal Thermal Oasis

Project in-detail

Constructed with hempcrete walls and timber trusses, the facility emerges as a sustainable oasis in Iceland’s geothermal landscape, offering visitors a unique thermal bathing experience enriched by its integration with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Hempcrete walls provide thermal insulation and environmental sustainability.
02
The facility incorporates cross-laminated timber for structural integrity and visual warmth.
03
Glass domes maximize natural light while offering panoramic views of the landscape.
04
Fixed planting beds are integrated into inner greenhouses to promote local flora.
05
Rammed earth foundations enhance durability and energy efficiency in geothermal conditions.

The Myvatn Nature Baths project is located in the geothermal area of Myvatn, Iceland. It aims to offer visitors a unique thermal experience while integrating with the surrounding landscape. The design fosters a connection between people and nature, highlighting sustainability and functionality. This carefully considered approach encourages exploration and interaction with the region's distinct geological features.

Design Concept
The layout consists of two phases that improve both user experience and construction management. Phase 01 includes a substantial portion of the necessary floor area built within a unified decking structure, providing guests with unobstructed views to the south. This strategy not only limits construction disruptions but also allows early access to key amenities, enriching the visitors' engagement with the landscape.

Structural Elements
The project features specific structural components that enhance its aesthetics and functionality. At the center, a glass dome allows natural light to illuminate the interior while creating a connection to the outside environment. The primary timber truss structure provides support and an organic feel, emphasizing the use of natural materials that resonate with the local context.

Sustainability Features
Incorporating inner greenhouses outfitted with fixed planting beds fosters sustainable practices that contribute to the therapeutic atmosphere of the baths. The choice of hempcrete for the outer support wall reflects modern ecological approaches, offering thermal mass and insulation. This material choice highlights a focus on energy efficiency while maintaining a design that is appropriate for the region.

Community Engagement
The main facility includes cross-laminated timber decking, which showcases contemporary construction techniques that balance structural strength with a lightweight atmosphere. Functional areas, such as kitchen units and perimeter seating, are positioned to encourage social interaction, inviting guests to gather and appreciate their surroundings. This thoughtful integration creates spaces that immerse users in the specific natural qualities of Myvatn.

With expansive views framed by the glass dome and the warmth of natural materials, visitors find themselves in an environment that emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature. The overall design aims to enhance the experience of the landscape while providing comfort and functional space for all who visit.

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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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