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Textured Concrete and Timber Lodge Designed for Winter Recreation وز Geothermal Efficiency

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Textured Concrete and Timber Lodge Designed for Winter Recreation وز Geothermal Efficiency
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Utilizing a combination of textured concrete and warm timber finishes, the design integrates geothermal efficiency to create a functional hub for winter sports activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes geothermal energy sourced from a nearby power plant for heating and cooling.
02
Features a bent A-frame design that enhances structural stability and aesthetic appeal.
03
Incorporates textured concrete as a primary material to withstand harsh weather conditions.
04
Includes a dedicated interactive center for visitor information on ski conditions.
05
Designed with a sloped corridor to facilitate efficient movement between functional areas.

**Overview**

Krafla House is situated approximately 2.3 km from the Krafla Crater in Iceland, adjacent to the Krafla Power Plant. The intent behind the design is to revitalize the local ski tourism industry, which faces challenges due to climate change and the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic. The facility aims to serve as a comprehensive hub for winter sports enthusiasts, offering amenities that cater to both novices and experienced skiers while ensuring user comfort and efficient space utilization.

**Spatial Strategy and User Experience**

The design employs a linear spatial arrangement that facilitates easy navigation through distinct zones, including rest areas, storage, and service rooms. A gently sloping corridor enhances accessibility and creates a cohesive flow throughout the building. Key areas include a social hub designed for relaxation, featuring expansive windows that frame views of the surrounding landscape, and an interactive information center that engages visitors with essential details about the ski terrain and local attractions. The building's layout serves to optimize the experience of visitors, encouraging both community interaction and individual exploration.

**Materiality and Sustainability**

The architectural expression of Krafla House combines robust materials—reinforced concrete and timber—to create a structure capable of withstanding Iceland's harsh climate while offering aesthetic appeal. The use of concrete reflects durability, while timber interiors add warmth. Large glass windows not only provide natural light but also connect occupants to the striking outdoor environment. Moreover, the design incorporates sustainable energy systems by utilizing geothermal energy from the adjacent power plant, significantly reducing its carbon footprint. Strategic building orientation and effective ventilation further enhance thermal performance and visitor comfort.

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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.

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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

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Final registration deadline 25 September 2025

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