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Sculpted Earth-Integrated Design Featuring Reinforced Concrete and Natural Wood Elements for Community Engagement

Authors:
Sara Ahmad Mustafa Izzeldeen, Dana Mohammad Khaled Jaber, Abdalia-a-n , Mo'ath Naim Mohammed Said Aloumour
Sculpted Earth-Integrated Design Featuring Reinforced Concrete and Natural Wood Elements for Community Engagement

Project in-detail

Incorporating sculpted forms of reinforced concrete and local wood materials, the design emphasizes a seamless connection to the rugged Icelandic landscape while serving as a multifaceted community hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sculpted from the natural topography, the design creates a fluid transition between built and natural environments.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels are used to enhance structural efficiency while providing thermal insulation.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide a weather-resistant and visually cohesive exterior.
04
The bent A-frame design optimizes interior space, allowing for flexible use across various functions.
05
Large, strategically placed windows frame views of the surrounding landscape, promoting connection with nature.

### Overview
"Sculpted Symbiosis" is situated in Iceland, designed to harmonize with the region's rugged terrain and climatic conditions. The facility functions as both a visitor center and a community amphitheater, merging traditional Icelandic architectural elements with contemporary design. This approach aims to create an inviting atmosphere that fosters social interaction and cultural engagement.

### Spatial Strategy and User Experience
The architectural layout facilitates versatility by accommodating various activities throughout the seasons. It incorporates large windows and open spaces, ensuring panoramic views of the surrounding landscape. This design also features an outdoor amphitheater, which not only serves as a venue for social gatherings but also establishes a connection to the natural environment. The building's elevations are sculpted to reflect the local topography, creating dynamic forms that harmonize with the site.

### Material Selection
The project emphasizes the use of local and natural materials to establish a connection with the environment. Reinforced concrete provides structural integrity against harsh weather, while wood is likely utilized for interior finishes, adding warmth to the spaces. Additionally, insulation layers are incorporated to enhance energy efficiency, and extensive glass openings are employed to maximize natural light and scenic views. The material choices are reflective of common practices in the region, further grounding the design within its geographical context.

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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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