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Recycled Concrete and Volcanic Stone Building Emphasizing Greenery and Community Engagement

Author:
Adrianna Jarząbek
Recycled Concrete and Volcanic Stone Building Emphasizing Greenery and Community Engagement
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Using volcanic stone and recycled concrete, the design centers around a crater-like feature that fosters community interaction, providing flexible spaces for exhibitions and a café in a sustainable setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Central crater design enhances visitor interaction and exploration.
02
Recycled concrete construction emphasizes sustainability and ecological responsibility.
03
Volcanic stone cladding connects the structure to its natural surroundings.
04
Flexible exhibition spaces accommodate various community events.
05
Green roof features improve stormwater management and biodiversity.

The design incorporates a concept centered around a 'CRATER,' which effectively connects the built environment with its natural setting. Located in an area reminiscent of volcanic landscapes, the structure highlights a relationship between its internal spaces and the surrounding scenery. It serves multiple purposes, including exhibitions, dining, and office functions, creating a cohesive experience for users.

Concept and Layout

The central 'CRATER' serves as a focal point, organizing the design around it to enhance visitor engagement. This layout reflects a volcano-concentric approach, guiding movement and interaction within the building. Areas are clearly defined, allowing for exploration while aligning with the external landscape. Visitors can navigate through the spaces with a sense of discovery.

Sustainable Design Features

Energy efficiency is at the core of the project. Natural ventilation is prioritized to maintain comfort, while mechanical systems support this as needed. This balance demonstrates a commitment to reducing environmental impact while ensuring a pleasant indoor climate. The integration of these systems indicates a thoughtful approach to environmental responsibility.

Functional Areas

Different levels serve distinct functions. The Ground Level includes visitor services such as a reception area, cloakroom, and flexible exhibition spaces. These elements promote ease of access and help visitors feel welcomed. On Level 1, a café encourages social interaction, providing a gathering place. Level 2 contains office spaces that cater to professional needs. These functional zones collectively enhance the overall user experience.

Materiality

Materials used in the project include recycled concrete, volcanic stone cover, and greenery cover. Choosing recycled concrete supports sustainability while ensuring structural strength. The volcanic stone cover creates a tactile connection to the environment, grounding the design within its natural setting. Greenery cover contributes not only to aesthetics but also serves environmental purposes, including improving air quality.

Large windows draw in natural light and frame views of the landscape, emphasizing the relationship between the inside and outside. The design encourages visitors to appreciate the surroundings, fostering a strong connection to 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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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