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Integration Of Concrete Shells And A Geological Crack In The Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Antonin Hautefort, Ignatio bhaskara putra Tenggara
Integration Of Concrete Shells And A Geological Crack In The Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

The exposed geological crack at the heart of the structure highlights its integration with the Icelandic landscape, while the use of concrete shells enhances its stability and creates a dynamic space for public education and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a prominent geological crack that defines the structural narrative.
02
Concrete shells are used for both aesthetics and stability in the harsh Icelandic climate.
03
Slanting walls provide protection from frequent rain and snow while maintaining flow within the space.
04
Pathways are inspired by traditional Icelandic architecture, promoting natural rainwater runoff.
05
An indoor observatory offers 360-degree views, enhancing interaction with the surrounding landscape.

Project Saman is set at the meeting point of North America and Europe, serving as a physical and symbolic representation of this unique intersection. The design centers on a crack that emphasizes the connection between the two continents. The structure is designed to blend with the Icelandic landscape, featuring a silhouette that reflects the dark earth tones while creating a bright interior space that invites exploration. The building functions as an educational hub, offering insights into the geological and geographical characteristics of the area.

Architectural Concept

The foundation of the design comes from the deliberate exposure of the geological crack. This element not only serves as the main visual point but also enhances the relationship between the structure and its surrounding environment. The play of light and shadow throughout the building allows visitors to experience different atmospheres as they move through the space, encouraging them to reflect on the natural beauty around them.



Circulation and Spatial Organization

Circulation within the building is carefully planned. Visitors first encounter a parking area with space for 30 vehicles, located next to a ticket office designed to promote community activities. Upon entering, guests can take either a staircase or a lift, allowing for a varied experience. The cafeteria is thoughtfully positioned across from the primary circulation path, providing peaceful views of the landscape, which contributes to a contemplative environment.



Environmental Integration

Attention to environmental factors is a key component of the design. Slanting walls protect occupants from the frequent rain and snow typical of the region. The rounded building perimeter is planned to enhance stability against winds and weather. To support the structure's integrity, it incorporates a framework with ring beams that help manage lateral loads, ensuring the building stands firm despite challenging conditions.



Detailing and Interaction

Pathways within Project Saman draw inspiration from traditional Icelandic houses, allowing rainwater to flow off the structure and support moss growth. This design choice strengthens the bond between the architecture and its natural context. The pathways serve both as movement routes and observation points, inviting visitors to engage with the landscape as they navigate the space.



The building's interior effectively uses thermal mass to enhance energy efficiency while employing minimal glazing to maintain structural integrity. As guests make their way to the observatory level, they find expansive views of the surrounding geography, creating a moment that highlights the interaction between the built environment and nature.

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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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