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Lava Rock Paths and Ice Skating Rink in a Flexible Community Hub

Authors:
Giacomo Talozzi, Beatrice Trincia
Lava Rock Paths and Ice Skating Rink in a Flexible Community Hub

Project in-detail

Set around a central void that transforms into an ice skating rink, the design incorporates local lava rock paths and flexible exhibition spaces to create an accessible community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
The central void doubles as an ice skating rink in winter.
02
Local lava rock sheets create accessible pathways throughout the site.
03
The exhibition hall features a reconfigurable panel system for flexibility.
04
The buildings are oriented to reflect the nearby volcano in design.
05
Benches around the void promote community interaction and rest.

The design reflects a thoughtful approach to creating a multifunctional Centre within a vibrant community setting. Three separate buildings form the core of the project, each fulfilling specific functions while promoting flexibility and future growth. At the heart of the design is an outdoor void that acts as a gathering space, enhancing connections between the structures and the surrounding landscape.

Modular Design Approach

The decision to divide functions among different buildings allows for greater adaptability over time. This modular approach helps the Centre evolve alongside the community and its changing needs. Paths made from local lava rock sheets encourage movement around the site and ensure accessibility for all users, reinforcing the integration of architecture and nature.

Central Void

The central void serves as an essential feature of the design. During warm months, it acts as a water area, while in colder seasons, it transforms into an ice skating rink. This versatility enriches the recreational opportunities available to users. Benches placed around the void invite visitors to rest and socialize, ensuring that it functions as a lively communal hub.

Exhibition Hall

The exhibition hall stands as the tallest structure within the complex. Its interior is designed with a flexible panel system, allowing for quick reconfiguration for various events. This adaptability means that the space can accommodate a range of activities, making it a valuable asset to the Centre. An ice skating rental office and an information point add to the convenience for visitors, enhancing their experience.

Landscape Integration

The layout of the buildings and the central void creates a responsive relationship with the surrounding area, particularly the nearby volcano. This careful integration of nature and architecture strengthens the project’s connection to its environment. Concrete roofs and entrances provide durability while contrasting with the softer forms found in the landscape. The overall design offers a balanced interaction between the built environment and the natural features, contributing to a cohesive sense of place.

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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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