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Parametric Design Featuring Recycled Plastics and Cross-Laminated Timber for a Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Nicolás Odorico, Gustavo alejandro Rosso, Erik franz Medina
Parametric Design Featuring Recycled Plastics and Cross-Laminated Timber for a Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

Constructed with recycled plastics and cross-laminated timber, this community hub integrates parametric design and biophilic elements to foster public engagement and educational initiatives in a sustainable environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built with recycled ocean plastics, the facade enhances environmental sustainability.
02
Parametric design optimizes natural light while minimizing energy consumption.
03
Cross-laminated timber construction provides structural stability and eco-friendly insulation.
04
Biophilic elements integrate greenery into the building's facade and surrounding areas.
05
Educational spaces focus on promoting community awareness of sustainability practices.
The project is an innovative architectural design located in Iceland, aimed at creating a community-focused hub that emphasizes sustainability and environmental consciousness. The building harmonizes with the surrounding landscape, utilizing materials and design principles that reflect the local ecological context. By integrating renewable energy sources and sustainable practices, this project serves as a model for future developments in similar environments.

The primary purpose of this architectural endeavor is to provide a multifunctional space that supports community engagement, education, and collaboration. The design includes areas such as exhibition halls, coworking spaces, and public facilities. This allows for a diverse range of activities while fostering social interaction and promoting awareness of environmental issues. The building’s aesthetic is characterized by its organic forms and integration with natural elements, reinforcing a connection between architecture and ecology.

Sustainable Design and Materiality

A key feature of this project is its commitment to sustainability. The design incorporates recycled ocean plastics for the facade, demonstrating the potential of innovative materials in reducing environmental impact. Cross-laminated timber (CLT) is used for the structural elements, providing strength and stability while minimizing carbon emissions. The integration of double hermetic curved glass enhances thermal performance and allows natural light to permeate the interior spaces. This focus on environmentally responsible materials not only elevates the building’s performance but also promotes a narrative centered around recycling and resource conservation.

The project’s architectural approach utilizes parametric design techniques, resulting in fluid forms that respond to the climatic conditions of the area. This responsiveness not only contributes to the building’s aesthetic appeal but also enhances its energy efficiency. By maximizing passive solar gains and optimizing ventilation, the design reduces reliance on mechanical heating and cooling systems.

Community-Centric Functionality

The architectural design prioritizes community interaction, offering various spaces that cater to different public needs. The exhibition hall, designed for educational purposes, showcases environmental themes, encouraging visitors to engage with sustainability practices. Collaborative coworking spaces foster creativity and innovation, allowing individuals and groups to work together on projects related to environmental and societal advancements.

The integration of biophilic elements, such as green walls and outdoor gathering spaces, further strengthens the relationship between the building and its environment. These features not only enhance the aesthetic experience but also contribute to the well-being of the users. The project thus serves as a significant asset to the community, promoting ecological literacy and fostering a sense of local identity.

Explore the project presentation for more details on the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that illustrate the unique features of this innovative project.
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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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
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