Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Pyramidal Structure Featuring Locally Sourced Timber and Glass Integration for Community Engagement

Authors:
Gary Stanesby, Edoardo Albertini petroni, Alice Appleby, Abre Etteh, Abre Etteh
Pyramidal Structure Featuring Locally Sourced Timber and Glass Integration for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

With its distinctive pyramidal roofs and a thoughtful integration of locally sourced timber and glass, the design creates an inviting communal space that fully embraces the stunning Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The project employs locally sourced timber, enhancing sustainability and reducing its carbon footprint.
02
Pyramidal roofs are designed to reflect the nearby volcanic peaks while allowing natural light to flood the interior.
03
Glass expanses create seamless connections between indoor spaces and the magnificent landscape outside.
04
An immersive theater design encourages interaction with both visual narratives and the surrounding terrain.
05
Acoustic enhancements are integrated throughout to ensure a tranquil environment for community gatherings.
The architectural project, Skyrmir, is a thoughtful exploration situated in the diverse landscape of Iceland, a region defined by its stark contrasts of volcanic terrain and glacial serenity. Through its design, Skyrmir represents a seamless integration of structure and environment, effectively bridging the gap between human habitation and the surrounding natural beauty. The project serves multiple functions, including a public gathering space, a café, and an immersive theater, all designed to foster community engagement and appreciation of Iceland's unique landscapes.

At the heart of Skyrmir’s architectural narrative is its form—characterized by an innovative use of pyramidal roofs that evoke the nearby volcanic peaks. This geometric expression reflects the rugged terrain while simultaneously allowing the architecture to emerge organically from its context. The careful consideration of scale and volume ensures that the structure remains unobtrusive, allowing it to coexist harmoniously with the natural environment.

One of the notable design approaches employed in Skyrmir is its commitment to sustainability. The project utilizes locally sourced materials such as timber, concrete, and glass, contributing to both the building's structural integrity and its ecological footprint. The incorporation of timber throughout the interior space not only adds warmth but also highlights a tactile connection to the surrounding landscape. The combination of concrete and glass walls facilitates a dialogue with the exterior, allowing ample natural light to permeate the interiors while framing breathtaking views of the Icelandic scenery.

Skyrmir’s interior layout is designed with a focus on versatility and flow. The spaces within including the café and multifunctional gathering areas are intended to encourage interaction among visitors. The architectural configuration ensures that each section of the building serves its purpose effectively while maintaining a cohesive experience. Noteworthy is the design of the theater, aptly named “The Volcano,” which enables a cinematic journey that complements the natural environment. This space allows viewers to engage with visual narratives while remaining connected to the external vistas.

Unique in its approach to spatial dynamics, Skyrmir thoughtfully orchestrates transitions between different areas. As visitors move through the building, they encounter a series of carefully curated sightlines that invite them to explore both the interior and the exterior landscapes. The careful positioning of windows and openings reinforces the relationship between the architectural space and its environment, allowing for a continuous visual dialogue.

Moreover, the project's attention to acoustics within the theater and communal spaces reflects an understanding of the importance of soundscapes in enhancing the visitor experience. Acoustic panels and thoughtful material choices aim to create inviting atmospheres, enabling conversations to flow without disturbance from external noise.

In summary, Skyrmir serves as a representation of a contemporary architectural endeavor that respects and integrates with its Icelandic surroundings. By focusing on sustainability, aesthetic coherence, and a strong narrative, the design not only functions as a community hub but also as a cultural landmark that embodies the spirit of the land. Interested readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation for more insights into its architectural plans, sections, and design ideas for a deeper understanding of this thoughtful architectural approach.
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