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Monolithic Structure of Burnt Wood and Volcanic Stone Overlooking a Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Paul Noltet, Jules Babinet
Monolithic Structure of Burnt Wood and Volcanic Stone Overlooking a Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Rising from the volcanic terrain, a monolithic structure combines burnt wood and local volcanic stone to create a unique hiking experience that bridges architecture and nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic form integrates seamlessly with the volcanic landscape.
02
Constructed using local volcanic stone gathered from the site.
03
Burnt wood cladding enhances durability while echoing natural features.
04
Light filters through openings, creating dynamic interior atmospheres.
05
Hiking path allows for experiential transitions between enclosed and open spaces.

The project is located on the crest of a volcano, designed to enhance the experience of hikers exploring its rugged landscape. A central idea is the connection between the built environment and the natural features of the site. As visitors walk along a wide path that follows the contours of the volcano, they are taken through a series of spaces that allow them to engage with their surroundings in different ways.

Conceptual Framework

The design forms a solid structure that stands out against the vast landscape. It focuses on how users will feel as they move through the space. Visitors transition from dark, enclosed areas to open, bright spaces. Each change in environment draws attention to the relationship between light and nature, encouraging exploration and discovery.

Materiality

Materials used in construction reflect the context of the site. The building is anchored with metal screws that provide stability while integrating it further into the landscape. Walls are formed from stones gathered nearby, reinforcing the connection to the geological features of the area. Burnt wood cladding also adds texture and echoes the volcanic surroundings, creating a cohesive link to the environment.

Spatial Experience

Light plays an important role in the design, filtering through openings that provide views of the lake and lava plains. This thoughtful use of natural light influences the atmosphere within the building. As hikers move between different types of spaces, they encounter environments that change, prompting a deeper connection with nature.

Visitors reach the upper levels where they can take in the expansive views, allowing them to appreciate the stunning scenery and the connection between their journey and the remarkable landscape.

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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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