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Lava Stone Shelter Designed for Community Agriculture Amidst Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Dirk Hovens
Lava Stone Shelter Designed for Community Agriculture Amidst Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced lava stone and designed to blend with the rugged Icelandic landscape, the facility supports community agriculture while providing a multifunctional space for collaboration and dining.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed from locally sourced lava stone, promoting environmental integration.
02
Features a bent A-frame design, enhancing structural stability against harsh weather.
03
Incorporates native plant species in its landscaping, supporting local biodiversity.
04
Designed with thermal mass for efficient climate control in a challenging environment.
05
Includes multifunctional spaces to foster community engagement and agricultural education.
The architectural design project "Between the Cracks" is located in the volcanic landscape near Myvatn, Iceland. This project encompasses a food garden and a restaurant, reflecting a commitment to sustainability and community interaction. The design seeks to integrate with the natural topography, utilizing a form that minimizes impact on the environment while offering practical utility.

The primary function of the project is to foster local agricultural practices and provide a space for communal dining and social engagement. The layout consists of a series of interconnected spaces that accommodate the kitchen, dining area, and multipurpose facilities, promoting a cohesive experience for visitors. By focusing on local sources and creating a productive environment, the project symbolizes the balance between built structures and the natural world.

The unique design of "Between the Cracks" is characterized by its form and materiality. The building adopts undulating shapes that resonate with the surrounding landscape. This subtle curvature not only enhances visual harmony but also serves a functional purpose by protecting against the harsh Icelandic climate. The walls, constructed from lava stone discs, are both structurally significant and contextually relevant, echoing the natural textures of the environment.

Incorporating large windows throughout the design allows for maximum natural light penetration and panoramic views, blurring the lines between interior and exterior spaces. This approach encourages visitors to engage with the exterior landscape, fostering a sense of connection with the surrounding ecosystem. The integration of a greenhouse and food garden underscores the project's emphasis on sustainability, promoting self-sufficiency and environmental stewardship.

The architectural plans reveal a thoughtful arrangement of spaces that prioritize functionality while maintaining a strong connection to the landscape. The architectural sections further illustrate the building's thermal performance needs, demonstrating a design that responds to climatic demands. The project distinguishes itself from conventional architectural designs by emphasizing ecological considerations and community involvement, setting a precedent for future developments in similar environments.

For deeper insights into the architectural design, architectural ideas, and details of this project, interested readers are encouraged to explore the full presentation. This includes a closer look at the architectural plans and sections that showcase the project's various components and unique design strategies.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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