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S-Shaped Embankment Constructed with Polyurethane-Sealed Timber Cladding for Recreational Facilities

S-Shaped Embankment Constructed with Polyurethane-Sealed Timber Cladding for Recreational Facilities

Project in-detail

The S-shaped embankment, crafted with polyurethane-sealed timber cladding and expansive glass façades, seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape while providing essential facilities for recreational activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The S-shaped design enhances wind protection and optimizes views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Polyurethane sealing ensures the roof's waterproofing while maintaining a natural aesthetic.
03
Timber cladding sourced from local forests contributes to sustainability and environmental harmony.
04
The split-level layout allows for distinct functional zones while promoting interaction among visitors.
05
Large glass façades invite ample natural light and foster a seamless connection with the outdoors.

**Project Overview**

Located near Myvatn Lake in Iceland, "The Plug-in" is designed to create a functional space that harmonizes with the natural landscape. The building's form, inspired by its geographic context, employs an S-shaped embankment to preserve the terrain while serving as a framework for the structure. This design choice facilitates a connection between architecture and the environment, mitigating stark contrasts and fostering an integrated experience for visitors.

**Spatial Organization and Functionality**

The interior layout of "The Plug-in" prioritizes openness and accessibility, allowing for straightforward navigation through defined functional areas. Key elements include changing rooms and restrooms designed as distinct wooden-clad boxes, a self-service refreshment station providing light meals, and an outdoor viewing deck offering expansive vistas of the ski slopes. The building’s corridors enhance flow and movement, ensuring an intuitive experience that promotes leisure and relaxation.

**Material Selection and Sustainability**

The material palette of "The Plug-in" emphasizes sustainability and local sourcing. Key materials include wood for walls and ceilings, a polyurethane sealing membrane for waterproofing the roof, extensive use of glass for natural light, and steel columns for structural integrity. Local gravel and earth contribute to the embankment, reinforcing the structure's connection to its setting. This thoughtful selection not only minimizes the ecological footprint but also creates a warm, inviting atmosphere that blends natural aesthetics with modern architectural principles.

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MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

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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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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