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Natural Stone Integration with Gray Water Management in Remote Living Spaces

Author:
Michael Hrabczuk
Natural Stone Integration with Gray Water Management in Remote Living Spaces

Project in-detail

Incorporating natural stone and a gray water management system, the design seamlessly integrates with its remote setting while providing essential living and observation spaces.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates a circular mechanical chase for efficient utility management.
02
Features a perimeter water collection system to enhance sustainability.
03
Includes radiantly heated exterior benches to provide comfort in cold climates.
04
Utilizes a gray water well for innovative water reuse practices.
05
Strategically positioned observation areas maximize views of the surrounding landscape.

The Iceland Cave Tower is located in Vogar Farmland and offers a functional space that blends well with its natural setting. The design focuses on providing essential living and observation areas, allowing users to engage with the surrounding landscape. With an emphasis on practicality and user experience, the building invites those inside to appreciate the unique qualities of the Icelandic terrain.

Structural Design

The layout consists of two levels, with Level 1 featuring key functional areas like a lobby and kitchen. This clear arrangement facilitates movement and accessibility. Level 2 is dedicated to observation, strategically designed to take advantage of scenic views of the landscape. Occupants can connect more deeply with their environment through this thoughtful approach to the building's layout.

Environmental Integration

Details in the elevations show how the structure interacts with the site. The North Elevation includes an entryway, a circular mechanical chase, and a perimeter water collection system. These features effectively manage rainwater, reflecting an informed approach to sustainability that aligns with Iceland's environment. This not only meets practical needs but also respects the local ecosystem.

Site Features

The site includes several important features that enhance both usability and sustainability. Natural stone pathways guide visitors toward the building, creating a clear distinction between the construction and the natural land. The presence of a gray water well and radiant heated benches further illustrates the project’s commitment to practicality while minimizing its environmental footprint. An incinerating toilet is also included, addressing modern waste management in a thoughtful manner.

Utility Infrastructure

The approach to utility planning showcases a focus on energy efficiency and resource management. A geothermal heating system plays a key role in the project and aligns with common sustainability practices in the region. Support systems such as an electrical emergency generator and geothermal well heads are also integrated, ensuring a dependable energy source in a remote area.

The observation area on Level 2 is well-positioned for unobstructed views, giving occupants a chance to appreciate the beauty and ruggedness of the Icelandic landscape while comfortably situated within the tower.

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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
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