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Nature-Inspired Space with Ice Cave Elements and Flexible Usage

Authors:
Kyungmin Min, Hyeonseok Kim, Gyeongdeuk Park
Nature-Inspired Space with Ice Cave Elements and Flexible Usage

Project in-detail

Inspired by the unique forms of ice caves, the design creates a flexible community space that fosters interaction while reflecting the natural beauty of Iceland's landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the geometry of ice caves.
02
Includes a flexible exhibition area for community use.
03
Integrates a "VOID" space to enhance visual connectivity.
04
Reflects local natural phenomena in its design.
05
Separates public and private zones effectively across two levels.

The project "Nameless" is located in the striking landscape of Iceland, which heavily influences its design. The structure embodies the country’s natural features, particularly its ice caves. It integrates spaces for public use alongside private offices for employees. The concept seeks to create a strong connection between the environment and the building, reflecting the essence of Iceland's unique geography.

Architectural Layout

The building is organized into two distinct levels. The first floor serves as a public zone, featuring a variety of multipurpose areas, meeting rooms, coworking spaces, and a cafeteria. This level encourages flexibility and accessibility for both visitors and employees. By providing a range of spaces, the layout promotes interaction and engagement, making it suitable for different activities.

The second floor transitions into a private zone. This level contains ten private offices designed for regular employees. To avoid a sense of confinement often associated with office spaces, a "VOID" area is incorporated. This feature creates visual and physical connections between the floors. It enhances circulation and allows for a sense of openness while maintaining necessary privacy.

Reflection of Nature

The design concept is inspired by Iceland's natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon, and local geological formations like Hliðarjall Volcano. These elements influence the building’s visual appeal. The façade features a static design that contrasts with the dynamic interior spaces, highlighting the relationship between the natural environment and architectural form.

Specific materials are not mentioned in the presentations, but the design suggests finishes and textures that connect with the icy landscapes of Iceland. This aspect enhances the user experience, creating links between the building’s interior and the surrounding environment.

One notable design detail is the fluidity of the internal spaces, where light plays an important role. The arrangement of open areas creates a feeling of connection to the landscape outside, fostering a calm environment that mirrors the peaceful beauty of Iceland's nature.

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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

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