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Lava Flow Paths and Local Stone Form a Community Space in Iceland

Authors:
Mekemta Jodel bismarc, Takam kenmogne Sidoine constant
Lava Flow Paths and Local Stone Form a Community Space in Iceland

Project in-detail

Constructed with local stone and a satin finish plexiglass facade, this community space draws inspiration from volcanic forms and lava flow, providing an educational hub that fosters interaction and connection in the heart of Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from local stone to enhance environmental integration.
02
Features a facade of satin finish plexiglass for optimal natural light and thermal efficiency.
03
Design evokes the flow of lava, creating a dynamic spatial experience for visitors.
04
Incorporates community-focused areas, enhancing social interaction among users.
05
Emphasizes sustainability through material choices and local resource utilization.

The Crater is a building located in Iceland that aims to reflect the region's volcanic heritage. It embodies the features of Iceland's large volcanic craters while integrating with the natural landscape. The design focuses on creating a space that allows visitors to engage with the area's geological story while also serving practical community and educational functions.

Concept and Spatial Design

The space mimics the flow of lava, guiding visitors through paths that resemble natural geological formations. Various areas within the building are arranged to enhance this experience, encouraging exploration and interaction. This layout invites people to immerse themselves in the unique volcanic context of Iceland.

Material Selection and Sustainability

Sustainability plays an important role in the project, with local stone as the primary construction material. Using local resources roots the building in its environment and reduces the environmental impact of transporting materials. The structure features a self-supporting envelope made from stainless steel, which helps ensure durability against Iceland's challenging weather conditions.

Community Integration

The design includes spaces that foster community interaction, such as a small crater that serves as a gathering area. This focus on social connectivity reflects a modern approach in design that values the importance of communal spaces and user engagement throughout the building.

Aesthetic and Environmental Considerations

The exterior is wrapped in satin finish plexiglass, which allows natural light to enter while providing thermal efficiency. This choice enhances the connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding environment, offering views of the landscape outside and creating a dynamic aesthetic experience for visitors.

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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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