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MGO-Enhanced Spaces Blending Geothermal Pools and Recycled Wood in a Community Hub

Authors:
Yuki Takata, Azusa Itoi, Ai Sasano, Naoyuki Takayama, Miyuki Shiraishi
MGO-Enhanced Spaces Blending Geothermal Pools and Recycled Wood in a Community Hub

Project in-detail

Utilizing MGO for structural stability and integrating geothermal pools with recycled wood, the design fosters a harmonious connection to the Icelandic landscape while serving as a communal facility for relaxation and social interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
MGO is used for structural integrity and sustainability, reducing environmental impact.
02
Geothermal pools are incorporated into communal areas for direct interaction with nature.
03
Recycled wood from local sources enhances aesthetic appeal and promotes resource conservation.
04
The labyrinthine layout encourages exploration and fosters social connectivity among visitors.
05
Green roofs support local biodiversity while providing natural insulation and energy efficiency.

## Myvatn Cavern Architectural Design Project

The Myvatn Cavern is located near Lake Myvatn in Iceland and is designed to harmonize with the surrounding natural landscape while facilitating community engagement. The intent is to create communal spaces that promote interaction between people and their environment, with a strong focus on sustainability and ecological balance. The design concept is formulated as "double-folded," representing both a shelter for diverse species and a regenerative approach to the local ecosystem.

### Spatial Dynamics and User Interaction

The layout features a labyrinthine design that encourages exploration and social engagement. Key spatial elements include geothermal pools offering immersive experiences with the natural environment, as well as communal areas designed to facilitate varied activities. These spaces allow for unobstructed views of the landscape, reinforcing the connection between the interior and exterior. Additionally, green roofs serve dual purposes: they contribute to building insulation and promote local biodiversity.

### Material Innovation and Environmental Integration

Incorporating sustainable practices, the Myvatn Cavern utilizes materials such as Magnesium Oxide for soil stabilization, recycled wood from existing structures, glass for transparency and interaction with the outdoors, and locally sourced stones for structural integrity. The integration of vegetation into the design not only enhances aesthetic appeal but also supports ecological health. The building harnesses geothermal energy to optimize its energy usage, tapping into Iceland's abundant renewable resources while minimizing environmental impact.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
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Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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