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Reflective Aluminum Facade with A-Frame Structure in the Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Johann Evin
Reflective Aluminum Facade with A-Frame Structure in the Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

The wide aluminum facade reflects the rugged Icelandic landscape while the steel A-frame structure elevates the visitor center, designed to facilitate exploration of the surrounding natural features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reflective aluminum facade enhances the connection with the Icelandic landscape.
02
Triangular footprint references expedition base camp tents for a unique shape.
03
Steel A-frame structure minimizes earthwork while providing stability.
04
Central atrium features an ETFE roof system for optimal natural light.
05
Incorporation of lava rocks reinforces ties to the local geological context.

The design is situated in Iceland, surrounded by impressive natural features such as the Hervjall volcano, Lake Myvatn, and the Lava Field. Serving as a visitor center, it acts as a starting point for exploration in the area. The overall concept emphasizes a strong connection between the architecture and its environment, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

Geometry and Form

The building’s triangular shape is inspired by the tents used in expedition base camps. This geometric approach allows for varied views of the striking landscapes while minimizing its presence in the environment. The structure is elevated above the land, supported by a steel A-frame that reduces earth-moving activity and gives a sense of lightness.

Materiality and Reflection

The exterior is clad with wide aluminum sheets, which create a reflective surface. This feature allows the building to merge with the landscape, making it less visually obtrusive. As people approach, the reflections enhance the experience of movement. The structure appears to change, encouraging visitors to interact with their surroundings instead of just observing.

Interior Spatial Experience

Inside, the layout maximizes natural light, creating an inviting atmosphere that connects to the outside. The central atrium uses an ETFE roof system, filtering daylight as it pours into the space. This design choice not only highlights the building’s technical features but also provides a lively environment where light and shadows can play.

Geological Connection

Lava rocks are incorporated into the atrium, establishing a direct relationship with the landscape. This design detail emphasizes the building’s link to the geological context of the area. The interaction between the architecture and the natural elements enhances the visitor experience, encouraging a deeper exploration of Iceland’s unique features.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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