Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Spherical Lodgments with Geothermal Efficiency and Polycarbonate Skylights

Authors:
Mina Fatemi dokht charook, Sadaf Daneshpajooh
Spherical Lodgments with Geothermal Efficiency and Polycarbonate Skylights

Project in-detail

With a distinctive design of spherical lodgments enabled by mobility and polycarbonate skylights that enhance celestial views, this architectural endeavor offers visitors a unique experience of the northern lights while embracing geothermal sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
Spherical lodgments feature mobility systems allowing repositioning along dual tracks.
02
Construction utilizes reinforced concrete for structural stability and durability.
03
Polycarbonate skylights are designed for variable pitch, optimizing natural light and views.
04
Geothermal energy systems support sustainable heating throughout the structure.
05
The design uniquely integrates mythology with modern functionality for enhanced visitor engagement.

### Overview

Located near the Krafla volcano in Iceland, the project "Follow The Path to Aurorae" draws inspiration from the natural phenomena of the region, specifically the northern lights. The design aims to foster an immersive experience that connects visitors with the landscape and celestial elements. Utilizing the metaphor of the goddess Aurora and her journey from sea to sky, the architecture prompts engagement with the environment through a carefully crafted path that offers varied perspectives of the surrounding natural beauty.

### Spatial Configuration and Functionality

The layout consists of guest rooms strategically arranged along a winding path, facilitating movement and exploration. The accommodations vary in type—ranging from single to quadruple configurations—created by a zoning strategy that balances communal and private areas. Each room is thoughtfully positioned to maximize views of the aurora borealis, enhancing visitor experience through design that prioritizes sightlines and interaction with the sky.

### Material Characteristics and Energy Solutions

Utilizing an array of innovative materials, the design emphasizes both aesthetic appeal and functional integrity. The structural foundation consists of reinforced concrete for durability, while custom metal-framed skylights made from multiwall polycarbonate panels enhance natural light entry. Electronically tintable Sageglass windows offer adjustable transparency for occupant comfort and energy efficiency.

Sustainability is a focal point, incorporating geothermal energy from the Krafla resources for heating, rainwater harvesting systems for potable water, and a closed-loop wastewater treatment system to minimize environmental impact. The unique pathway dynamics feature spherical wheels beneath the guest rooms, permitting movement along dual tracks—both stationary lodging tracks and traversable movement pathways—reflecting the narrative of motion inherent in the concept.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

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

`
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

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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy