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Responsive Water Channels Integrated with Fog for Immersive Nature Experience

Authors:
Yunzi Song, Xuming Zheng, Ya Zhang
Responsive Water Channels Integrated with Fog for Immersive Nature Experience

Project in-detail

Integrating responsive water channels with fog elements, the design explores Iceland’s unique hydrology to create an immersive eco-tourism experience that fosters a deep connection with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Responsive water channels guide visitor interaction with dynamic landscape features.
02
Fog integrates seamlessly within the building's design to enhance the atmosphere.
03
Holistic planning emphasizes the relationship between architecture and nature.
04
Spatial arrangements create areas for reflection amid natural water elements.
05
The project promotes eco-tourism through immersive sensory experiences.

Situated at the conjunction of the North Atlantic and Arctic Oceans, the design focuses on exploring water's unique characteristics in one of the most dynamic environments on Earth. In Iceland, where rainfall and geothermal activity are abundant, the architecture engages with the landscape to reflect local narratives and traditions. The aim is to create an experience that blends nature with human interaction, using innovative design strategies.

Design Approach

The concept hinges on fostering interaction between the public and the water landscape, which features waterfalls and plateaus. This is achieved through the implementation of customized water channels and devices that respond to the environment. These features guide visitors in a tactile exploration of moving water, allowing them to feel its various states. The intent is to support eco-tourism by encouraging meaningful connections with nature through various sensory experiences.

Spatial Arrangement

The planning incorporates a holistic approach, using fog and mist within the building's design. These elements add to the structure's aesthetic and help control the internal atmosphere. This approach mirrors the local climate while contributing to the overall experience. Integrating these natural components emphasizes the connection between the architecture and the environment.

Visitor Interaction

The layout promotes exploration, encouraging movement and discovery among the water elements and the surrounding terrain. Thoughtful spatial arrangements create spots for sitting, resting, and contemplating. These areas enhance the relationship between the built environment and nature, inviting visitors to appreciate the landscape's nuances in a more personal way.

Connection to the Landscape

While specific materials are not detailed in the presentation text, the design emphasizes interactivity and responsiveness. Material choices likely enhance the experience of the landscape's natural qualities. The overall design encourages visitors to engage with the environment thoughtfully, allowing them to witness the beautiful shifts in water and landscape. Here, the architecture becomes a medium for experiencing the rhythm of Iceland's waterscapes.

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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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