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Stone and Wood Community Space Merging Second-Hand Exchange with Organic Gardening

Author:
Sijia Wu
Stone and Wood Community Space Merging Second-Hand Exchange with Organic Gardening
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Incorporating stone and wood elements, a dynamic second-hand trading space and an organic garden create an engaging community hub that emphasizes sustainable practices and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Flexible curtain walls allow for adjustable spatial configurations tailored to community needs.
02
An organic garden integrates with children's play areas, promoting hands-on learning and interaction.
03
The design features a significant emphasis on waste management, addressing various waste types comprehensively.
04
Materials include locally sourced stone and wood, enhancing the connection to the Icelandic landscape.
05
Dedicated spaces for cultural exhibitions foster community engagement and celebrate local heritage.

The design presents an innovative approach to integrating recycling and community functions. Located in an area that prioritizes environmental awareness, it aims to foster participation in sustainable practices among residents and visitors. The concept is centered around the principles of the circular economy. It features dedicated spaces for second-hand trading and organic gardening, promoting community engagement in everyday activities related to sustainability.

Second-Hand Trading Area

The second-hand trading area provides adaptable spaces with curtain walls that allow for different configurations. This flexibility brings residents together, creating a welcoming environment for sharing goods. The set-up can easily adjust to accommodate community needs, making it a lively center for exchange and collaboration.

Organic Garden

The organic garden does not exist in isolation; instead, it connects with children's play zones and pathways for visitors. This design encourages learning and engagement with gardening practices. Children can discover how to grow plants, while visitors have the option to purchase organic products. This integration of functions supports a hands-on experience and strengthens community ties.

Functional Spaces

A range of functional spaces is incorporated throughout the design. These include a community room, children’s classroom, kitchen and bath, storage areas, cultural exhibition spaces, terraces, ramps, reading rooms, event areas, tourist rest spots, and platforms. Each space is intentionally designed to cater to the varied needs of the community, promoting interaction and cultural activities.

Materiality

Materials chosen for the project include stone and wood, which are commonly used in local architecture in Iceland. These selections enhance the overall visual appeal while fostering a connection to the natural surroundings. The thoughtful use of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and deepens the integration within the community.

The design culminates in a well-balanced environment that connects functional needs with educational opportunities. An inviting terrace overlooks the organic garden, providing a tranquil setting for community gatherings amid greenery. The space encourages active participation in environmental initiatives, making it a valuable asset for all who use it.

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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.

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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

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