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Thermal Mass Integration with Recycled Materials in a Community-Focused Facility

Author:
Tibor joseph Sarvari
Thermal Mass Integration with Recycled Materials in a Community-Focused Facility

Project in-detail

Utilizing thermal mass and natural materials, the facility integrates hydroponic systems and community spaces to enhance agricultural practices and foster local engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes hydroponic systems for year-round crop production.
02
Incorporates a biodigester for waste recycling and resource generation.
03
Features large glass panels to enhance natural light and connectivity.
04
Designed to follow the natural topography of the site for minimal disruption.
05
Utilizes locally sourced materials to promote regional sustainability.
The Lake Myvatn Community House is an architectural project designed to serve as a multifunctional space focused on community engagement and sustainable agricultural practices. Located near Lake Myvatn in Iceland, the project integrates local resources and environmental considerations to create a facility that enhances agricultural productivity while fostering social interaction. With a design that merges geometry with local topography, the community house reflects a commitment to sustainability and ecological responsibility.

Sustainable Features and Community Engagement

A key aspect of the Lake Myvatn Community House is its layout, which is strategically designed to optimize functionality and encourage community participation. The building incorporates separate zones for various activities, including agricultural exchange, education, and group dining. By emphasizing flexible space, the design allows for diverse uses that can adapt to the changing needs of the community. Large glass panels provide natural light and foster visual connectivity between interior and exterior spaces, enhancing the overall user experience.

The project employs a range of sustainable materials to minimize its environmental impact. Concrete serves as the primary structural element, offering durability and thermal mass. The use of light steel frames allows for open spaces while maintaining structural integrity. Wood finishes add warmth to the interior, supporting the building's ecological ethos by utilizing locally sourced materials when possible. These decisions contribute to a minimal waste approach and a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape.

Innovative Agricultural Integration

The design of the Lake Myvatn Community House includes innovative agricultural systems that support local food production. Glass houses designed for hydroponic as well as traditional farming techniques are integrated into the facility, enabling year-round crop cultivation. This direct connection to agriculture is further enhanced through the inclusion of a biodigester, which processes organic waste into valuable resources for farming. Such features not only promote sustainability but also educate the community on modern agricultural practices.

Accessibility is another crucial consideration in the design of this community house. Pathways are designed to ensure that all members of the community, including those with disabilities, can access every part of the facility. The thoughtful arrangement of spaces, paired with intuitive navigation, encourages participation and engagement from diverse user groups.

The Lake Myvatn Community House exemplifies a modern approach to architecture that responds directly to local climates, resources, and community needs. This project serves as a model for future initiatives aiming to balance ecological responsibility with community-driven designs. For more detailed insights, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs associated with this unique project.
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MICROHOME
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100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
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Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

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

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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