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Monolithic Structure with Volcanic Elements Overlooking a Scenic Crater

Author:
Samuel Schubert
Monolithic Structure with Volcanic Elements Overlooking a Scenic Crater

Project in-detail

Constructed from insulating concrete and volcanic materials, the building emerges as a monolithic form that harmonizes with the landscape while providing versatile exhibition space and community engagement opportunities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced volcanic materials for enhanced thermal performance.
02
Features a unique series of gables that echo traditional turf house architecture.
03
Designed with multifunctional exhibition halls for flexible community use.
04
Integrated functional cores that separate spaces while housing essential services.
05
Offers panoramic views of the HVERFJALL crater from within the exhibition areas.

GABLED ROCK stands as a notable structure in a flat landscape, defined by a large, solid form that captures attention without overpowering the setting. This design draws inspiration from historical turf houses, evident in the diverse gabled shapes that create a silhouette reminiscent of mountains. The building serves dual purposes as both an exhibition space and a community resource, encouraging interaction with the natural environment while providing a flexible setting for various activities.

Architectural Concept
The concept is rooted in the relationship between the building and its landscape. The form balances modern design elements with traditional references. Each gable reflects historical building styles, creating a visual connection that links the past with the present. Inside, the layout consists of a series of exhibition halls arranged in a sequence that allows smooth movement and engagement between spaces. This design enhances the visitor experience through a well-thought-out spatial arrangement.

Functional Layout
Inside GABLED ROCK, spaces are organized with careful attention to function and adaptability. Each exhibition area is designed with varying sizes and proportions, accommodating different uses and events. Visitors are guided from the entrance through these spaces toward a view of the HVERFJALL crater, creating a connection with the surrounding landscape. Essential services are integrated via functional cores, which help maintain a clear flow of movement throughout the building, supporting various activities and gatherings.

Material Considerations
The design emphasizes materiality, primarily using insulating concrete for its construction. This choice allows for a unified stone-like appearance on both the outside and inside of the building, avoiding the need for additional insulation layers. The exterior features a washed finish that highlights volcanic stones, reinforcing the building's connection to Icelandic geography. Inside, the walls are brushed white to enhance the light reflection, creating a bright atmosphere throughout the exhibition areas.

Design Details
The building incorporates a flooring system that provides heating and sound insulation, ensuring a comfortable indoor environment. Elements such as foam glass ballast and gravel play specific roles within the overall design, enhancing its functionality. GABLED ROCK showcases a commitment to practical design and user comfort, illustrated through the careful balance of light and shadow on its surfaces, enriching the experience for those who explore its interior spaces.

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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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