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Reused Pine Battens and Layered Foil Cushion in Volcano Exhibition Space

Author:
Jan Baumhauer
Reused Pine Battens and Layered Foil Cushion in Volcano Exhibition Space

Project in-detail

Utilizing reused pine battens and a three-layer foil cushion for energy efficiency, the design creates an engaging volcano exhibition space that emphasizes sustainability and visitor interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Reuse of existing pine battens from a previous structure enhances sustainability.
02
Three-layer foil cushion optimizes light management and energy efficiency.
03
Design incorporates dedicated barrier-free restroom facilities for accessibility.
04
Integrated systems maintain stable indoor climate at 20°C for visitor comfort.
05
Focus on interactive displays fosters deeper engagement with volcanic themes.

BASE HVERFJALL is designed to provide an interactive space focused on volcanology. Situated in a landscape that showcases geological features, the facility includes exhibition areas and visitor amenities. The main concept combines functional space with welcoming environments, encouraging exploration and learning while ensuring that all visitors can access its offerings.

Architectural Layout

The first floor is carefully arranged with specific areas that enhance the visitor experience. The main feature is the Volcano Exhibition Zone, which is complemented by a Coffee Shop and Visitor Centre. This layout allows visitors to move easily between exhibits and rest areas. The inclusion of restrooms, including accessible ones, emphasizes the intention of making the facility usable for everyone. Additionally, storage and operational spaces have been integrated into the design to support efficient management.

Energy Considerations

Sustainability is an important element of the design. The building incorporates systems that manage indoor air and maintain a consistent temperature of 20°C. This enhances comfort for the users. A special three-layer foil cushion has been implemented to control sunlight entering the space, effectively balancing light and energy needs throughout the building, making it more energy-efficient.

Materials Selection

Materials selected for BASE HVERFJALL focus on functionality and environmental impact. The flooring uses pine wood panels that are 2 cm thick, providing a warm and inviting feel. Wooden beams with a thickness of 12 cm ensure structural stability throughout the building. Insulation made from wood fiber, measuring 4 cm, improves heat retention, contributing to energy conservation. Steel windows are employed for their durability and ease of maintenance. The facade features reused pine wood battens, showing a commitment to sustainability by repurposing existing materials.

Design Details

Every aspect of BASE HVERFJALL is designed to enhance visitor engagement. The well-considered layout encourages individuals to explore and interact with the displays. Material choices reinforce the commitment to sustainable practices while maintaining a comfortable atmosphere. Overall, the design highlights a connection with its geological surroundings, inviting visitors to appreciate the natural world and the science behind it.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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