Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

One-Way Mirror Facades and Geothermal Sustainability in a Circular Cultural Hub

Authors:
Martin Zemma, Federico Bonessi baade
One-Way Mirror Facades and Geothermal Sustainability in a Circular Cultural Hub

Project in-detail

With its circular form and one-way mirror facades that reflect the stunning Icelandic landscape, this cultural hub integrates geothermal heating systems and wooden rib structures to create a sustainable environment for art exhibitions and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The building features one-way mirror facades that enhance privacy while reflecting the surrounding landscape.
02
It utilizes a circular form that creates a dynamic flow of spaces, allowing for natural light and a sense of openness.
03
Geothermal heating systems are integrated into the design, minimizing energy consumption and promoting sustainability.
04
Wooden rib structures provide both aesthetic appeal and structural stability, showcasing the use of local materials.
05
The layout promotes community interaction, with multifunctional spaces designed to accommodate various cultural events and activities.
The Morph Museum is an architectural project that harmonizes with the stunning landscapes of Iceland, serving as a cultural hub that engages visitors with the local art scene and natural environment. This design reflects a seamless integration of architecture with nature, emphasizing sustainability and the essence of the surrounding area. The project not only serves as a museum but also as a gathering space for the community, fostering a connection between art, nature, and human interaction.

The architecture of the Morph Museum features a unique circular form that embodies fluidity, allowing it to stand out against the jagged terrain of its locality. The building’s design is intentionally flexible, reflecting the dynamic nature of the cultural activities it houses. Inside, the architecture creates a versatile layout, accommodating a variety of exhibitions and events. The main hall functions as an adaptable space, easily reconfigured to host diverse artistic expressions and performances. Exhibition halls are designed to be open and engaging, allowing for the seamless display of different types of artworks, thereby enhancing the visitor experience.

Materiality plays a significant role in the design philosophy of the Morph Museum. The project employs a combination of steel structures, aluminium plate facades, and wooden rib frameworks. These materials were chosen not only for their aesthetic properties but for their sustainable characteristics. The aluminium exterior serves as a lightweight, durable surface that reflects light, while the wooden elements introduce warmth and a natural quality to the spaces. Additionally, the use of one-way mirror windows enables the interplay of privacy and transparency, allowing visitors to engage with the environment while maintaining a sense of seclusion within the museum.

A significant aspect of the Morph Museum’s design is its commitment to sustainability. The integration of geothermal systems provides an eco-friendly approach to climate control, utilizing Iceland's natural resources effectively. Rainwater collection systems further enhance the building’s environmentally responsible framework. This sustainability focus not only minimizes the ecological footprint of the project but also serves as an educational tool for visitors, emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.

The interior design of the Morph Museum presents a carefully considered approach to aesthetics and functionality. High ceilings and carefully placed skylights create an ambiance filled with natural light, which is essential for both art display and visitor comfort. The flow of spaces is thoughtfully arranged to guide visitors through an exploratory journey, encouraging them to engage with both the art and the architecture. The café area is designed to be a communal space, promoting interaction and relaxation, thereby enhancing the overall experience within the museum.

Additionally, the Morph Museum strategically incorporates landscape elements into its architectural plan. By establishing elevated viewpoints and terraces, the design maximizes connections to the breathtaking Icelandic scenery, offering visitors unique perspectives of the surrounding natural beauty. This relationship between the building and its environment not only enriches visitors' experiences but also reinforces the museum's role as a mediator between art and nature.

In summary, the Morph Museum project represents a powerful example of architecture that is conscious of its environment and community. With its thoughtful material choices, flexible spaces, and focus on sustainability, the design promotes a dialogue between the museum, its visitors, and the natural world. The innovative architectural ideas at play are a reflection of the region's cultural identity and environmental integrity. For a deeper understanding of this architectural endeavor, including architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs, we encourage you to explore the project presentation for further insights into this unique project.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16544 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy