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Reflective Pathways That Engage Volcanic Landscapes

Author:
Heemyung Yang
Reflective Pathways That Engage Volcanic Landscapes

Project in-detail

Anchored in volcanic terrain, reflective pins create a multi-sensory pathway that invites visitors to explore the interplay of temperature and vibrations within the natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Anchored posts create a tactile connection between visitors and the volcanic ground.
02
Visitors experience temperature changes and vibrations through the reflective pins.
03
The design eliminates traditional viewing platforms, promoting exploration of the landscape.
04
The reflective quality of the pins enhances sensory engagement with the environment.
05
Spatial arrangement provides multiple viewpoints of the unique volcanic landscape.

"Pins and Needles" is an installation designed to foster interaction with Iceland's unique volcanic landscape. It features a series of reflective square posts, called "pins," which taper into points secured deep within the earth. This arrangement forms a path that leads visitors to the highest point of the volcano's edge. It allows for varying views and a deep sensory connection with the natural environment.

Functionality and Engagement

The installation focuses on creating a multi-sensory experience for visitors. As people walk along the path, they are encouraged to touch the pins. In doing so, they can feel changes in temperature and vibrations that echo the geological features of the area. This tactile interaction establishes a meaningful link between those who visit and the surrounding volcanic landscape.

Design Concept

"Pins and Needles" moves away from traditional viewing platforms by offering a reflective path that engages all senses. The way the pins are arranged allows for a journey through the site, providing visitors with diverse viewpoints. Each step along the path deepens the understanding of the landscape's beauty and complexity, transforming the act of walking into an exploration of nature.

Material Considerations

The specific materials used are not clearly defined, but the reflective nature of the pins plays a significant role in the design. These surfaces enhance sensory experiences while creating a dynamic relationship with the environment. As light and weather conditions change, the installation responds, blending with the volcanic landscape and providing a unique experience for each visitor.

The design culminates in a thoughtful interaction between human experience and nature, highlighting the connections between the visitors and the earth underfoot.

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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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