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Rooftop Spa and Volcanic Stone Integration in a Biophilic Sanctuary

Rooftop Spa and Volcanic Stone Integration in a Biophilic Sanctuary

Project in-detail

Incorporating a rooftop spa and utilizing volcanic stone, this biophilic sanctuary harmonizes with its Icelandic landscape to create a unique retreat that fosters interaction with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates volcanic stone as a primary material to enhance regional contextuality.
02
Features a rooftop spa designed to provide direct views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Utilizes cross-laminated timber panels for reduced environmental impact and efficient construction.
04
Employs natural ventilation strategies to optimize energy efficiency throughout the building.
05
Engages with local wildlife by integrating spaces that encourage ecological interaction.

### Project Overview

Located in a remarkable Icelandic landscape, "Tapestry of Nature" aims to harmonize architectural design with natural elements, fostering a deep connection between the built environment and local ecosystems. The project's intent is to create a space that serves both human visitors and native wildlife, promoting interaction with nature while embodying principles of sustainability and ecological awareness.

### Materiality and Sustainability

The design prioritizes the use of sustainable materials that reflect the site's geological characteristics. Crushed volcanic stone is incorporated into concrete mixes, rooting the structure in its local context. This choice aligns with circular economy principles to minimize the carbon footprint while maintaining visual coherence with the surroundings. Geothermal energy is utilized to heat specific areas, such as the rooftop spa, enhancing the experience of occupants while acknowledging the regional climatic conditions. Natural ventilation strategies are integrated to optimize energy efficiency, further reinforcing the project's commitment to sustainability.

### Spatial Organization and User Experience

The layout of the building features a thoughtful blend of public and private spaces, enhancing user experience across various settings. Public amenities include a main lounge, café, and restaurant, designed to facilitate social engagement and draw in visitors. In contrast, private bathing areas are strategically placed to ensure privacy while allowing interactions with the natural environment. The building footprint is deliberately engineered to minimize disruption to the topography, ensuring coexistence with the landscape. The inclusion of large windows and terraces provides unobstructed views of the surrounding mountains and rivers, effectively blurring the boundaries between indoor and outdoor environments.

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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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