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Stony Retreat with Metal Framework Embracing Nature’s Calm

Authors:
Lizet Ledesma, Víctor Fonseca, Sebastián Negrete, Giuseppe Castillo
Stony Retreat with Metal Framework Embracing Nature’s Calm

Project in-detail

Constructed with a metal framework and stony exterior, the retreat blends seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, creating a space for calm reflection and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with an easy-to-assemble metal system for minimal maintenance.
02
Designed to encourage sensory exploration through dynamic light and shadow.
03
Incorporates local stony materiality that reflects the surrounding landscape.
04
Focuses on creating areas for personal reflection and tranquility.
05
Positioned to engage visitors directly with Iceland’s unique geological features.

The Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop is set against a rugged, rocky landscape that showcases the geological features of Iceland. The design aims to create a tranquil space for visitors, encouraging them to connect with the natural surroundings. The concept focuses on guiding the experience through exploration, with each element of the design inviting users to engage with their environment.

Design Philosophy

The overall approach to the design emphasizes harmony with the natural terrain. Light and shadow are carefully considered, helping to guide visitors through the space in a meaningful way. This dynamic relationship creates areas of quiet reflection and engagement, inviting people to take their time and enjoy the beauty of the landscape.

Materiality

A metal framework is used for the main structure, which allows for easy assembly and disassembly. This choice reflects an understanding of sustainability and ensures that the building requires little maintenance over time. The materials chosen support the building’s durability and functionality, making it suitable for the demanding weather conditions of the region.

Connection to Landscape

Incorporating stony materiality reinforces the relationship between the building and its surroundings. The design resonates with the shapes and textures found in the landscape, creating a conversation between the structure and its site. Visitors can feel the connection to the earth, enhancing their experience as they move through the coffee shop.

Natural light floods the interior through thoughtfully placed openings, crafting an atmosphere of calm and reflection. The experience of being in this space connects visitors to the raw beauty of Iceland, highlighting the quiet power of nature and the architecture's respectful place within it.

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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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