Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Optical Prism Within Geothermal Landscape Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels for a Community Hub

Author:
Alessio Maurizi
Optical Prism Within Geothermal Landscape Featuring Charred Wooden Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Panels for a Community Hub

Project in-detail

An optical prism integrated into a community hub in the Myvatn region creates dynamic light experiences, complemented by charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, fostering education and cultural engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Optical prism technology used to replicate natural light effects within the museum.
02
Sustainable charred wooden shingles enhance durability and aesthetics.
03
Modular construction method allows for adaptable spatial configurations.
04
Integration of geothermal features provides energy efficiency.
05
Community-focused spaces promote local cultural events and educational programs.
The Lighthouse Museum is an architectural project located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, designed to function as a community hub and cultural center. It combines educational and artistic purposes, catering to both residents and visitors. The structure reflects the rugged beauty of the Icelandic landscape, integrating seamlessly with its surroundings. The primary aim is to enhance tourism while promoting local culture and community engagement.

Architecturally, the design employs a modular approach, facilitating rapid construction and adaptability. A mix of load-bearing walls and structural pillars provides the necessary durability against harsh weather conditions prevalent in the region. The building's footprint includes multiple functional spaces with clear circulation paths, fostering accessibility for all users.

The museum features a prominent entrance defined by large glass panels that create a sense of openness and transparency. This approach not only invites natural light into the space but also forms a direct visual connection with the external environment. Internal spaces include exhibition halls, workshops, and community gathering areas, each specified for different educational and social activities.

The unique aspect of the Lighthouse Museum is its central lighthouse structure, which houses an optical prism designed to replicate the Northern Lights. This design element serves both functional and aesthetic purposes, creating immersive lighting experiences that enhance visitor engagement. The interaction between light and space within the museum promotes exploration and encourages local cultural narratives to be expressed artistically.

The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and local context. Predominantly, wood is used throughout the interior and exterior, providing warmth and linking the building to its natural environment. Glass elements ensure a continuous dialogue between inside and outside, maintaining a connection with the stunning landscapes of Myvatn. Steel contributes to the structural integrity of the lighthouse, while concrete forms the foundation, securing the building against environmental challenges.

The design outcomes of the Lighthouse Museum include a cohesive integration of architecture and landscape, resulting in a functional space that serves community needs and fosters cultural appreciation. Such an approach emphasizes the importance of architectural design in enhancing local identity and heritage.

For additional insights, explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs related to this project. Understanding the various architectural ideas implemented can further illuminate the unique design approaches taken to realize the objectives of the Lighthouse Museum.
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 17,249 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