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Reflective Two-Way Mirror Structure Embedded in the Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Jc Franco
Reflective Two-Way Mirror Structure Embedded in the Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

A two-way mirror façade reflects the Icelandic landscape while a crystalline form invites exploration through a dynamic public space for observation and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Two-way mirror façade enhances reflection of the surrounding landscape.
02
Crystalline form creates shifting profiles from different viewpoints.
03
Staggered interior slabs provide unique visual connections across levels.
04
Continuous gallery space encourages interaction among visitors.
05
Innovative light manipulation fosters real-time engagement with the environment.

The architectural design stands out against the rough beauty of the Icelandic landscape. It resembles a meteor that has crashed into the earth, creating a shape that is both compelling and harmonious with its surroundings. The structure serves multiple purposes, including observation, dining, and exhibition. The overall design concept emphasizes a relationship with nature, enhancing the visitor experience through a blend of form and function.

Façade Design

The façade features a two-way mirror that reflects the environment, including the sky, plains, and the nearby volcano. This reflective surface creates a connection between the building and its landscape, allowing the structure to engage with its surroundings. The use of ultra-thin, lightweight, and semi-transparent materials enhances this interaction, allowing light to filter in and create various effects throughout the day. The design adapts to shifts in weather and time, continuously changing the way it is perceived.

Spatial Organization

Inside, the design offers a continuous public space that functions like a flowing gallery. This layout encourages movement and invites visitors to explore different levels. As people walk through, they can observe activities happening at various heights, reinforcing a sense of community. The staggered arrangement of spaces creates unique views from each level, linking the indoor experience to the outdoor environment, and allowing visitors to feel connected to the landscape.

Programmatic Elements

The building contains various functional spaces, such as observation areas, dining facilities, and administrative offices. Each area is designed to serve a specific purpose while contributing to the overall experience. The careful placement of these spaces ensures they complement one another, making the building useful and engaging. This thoughtful arrangement promotes interaction among visitors and emphasizes the relationship between the interior and the exterior.

At its essence, the design exemplifies a commitment to blending nature with built form. It captures attention with its unique shape and showcases a deep respect for the surroundings. The building becomes a part of the landscape, inviting exploration and engagement in a natural setting.

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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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