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Reflective Lavastone Wall Framing Panoramic Views in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Tom Hulsman, Jaap Sybenga, Maarten Suykerbuyk
Reflective Lavastone Wall Framing Panoramic Views in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

A lavastone wall integrates reflective surfaces with panoramic views of the Dimmuborgir lava fields and Hverfjall volcano, creating a contemplative space for visitors to engage with the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lavastone wall blends with the natural terrain, creating a distinct visual identity.
02
Reflective openings allow natural light and sky reflections into the interior space.
03
Three distinct landscapes are revealed along visitors' paths, enhancing the experience.
04
Sustainable features include a graywater system and geothermal energy use.
05
The design prioritizes family-friendly spaces, ensuring safety and observation.

The Dimmuborgir Wall is set in the dramatic landscape of Iceland, specifically within the Dimmuborgir lava fields, near the Hverfjall volcano and Lake Mývatn. Its design thoughtfully considers the surrounding nature while providing a space for visitors to connect with the environment. The main idea involves a lavastone wall that acts as both a physical boundary and a frame for the stunning views, creating a dialogue between architecture and landscape.

Architecture Concept

The lavastone wall rises from the ground, hiding some views while allowing others to emerge through carefully placed openings. These gaps serve as reflective surfaces, capturing the sky and bringing sunlight into the interior. This approach helps to blend the indoor and outdoor spaces, resulting in a fluid experience as visitors move through the building.

Visitor Experience

When guests arrive, they enter through reflective doors that lead into a short tunnel. This transition helps separate the vast outdoor area from the more intimate indoor space. Inside, sloped pathways guide visitors through three distinct landscapes, each revealing different vistas. The journey starts with wide views of the Dimmuborgir lava fields, shifts to the sight of the Hverfjall volcano, and concludes with an outlook over Lake Mývatn from an elevated position.

Sustainability

Sustainability is an important aspect of the design. Geothermal energy systems take advantage of the natural heat found in the area. Additionally, the lavastone wall contributes to maintaining a stable indoor climate. A graywater system recycles water within the building, while wool insulation enhances energy efficiency. These features show a commitment to environmental care without sacrificing the building's functionality.

Detailing

The design prioritizes accessibility and family-friendly spaces. Parents can keep watch over their children while enjoying the vistas provided by the landscape. At the top of the wall, the view opens up to the black lava fields, allowing visitors to appreciate the connection between architecture and nature in a straightforward and engaging way.

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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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