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Timber Cladding and Local Stone Integration Amidst Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Nick Edler
Timber Cladding and Local Stone Integration Amidst Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Incorporating locally sourced stone and timber cladding, the design seamlessly integrates into Iceland's volcanic landscape while serving as a communal hub for education and hospitality.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced volcanic stone, enhancing site-specific integration.
02
Features a central courtyard designed for community gatherings and events.
03
Incorporates green roofs for environmental sustainability and insulation.
04
Employs a prefabrication construction method for efficiency and reduced waste.
05
Includes dedicated agricultural spaces to promote local farming practices.

The Eyes of Mývatn is an architectural project situated in the unique geological landscape surrounding Lake Mývatn in Iceland. This design is characterized by its careful integration of nature and sustainability, reflecting the site’s volcanic history and ecological environment. The project serves multiple functions, including community gathering, dining, and educational spaces focused on local agriculture and the environment.

The architecture features several distinct volumes that interconnect to form a cohesive structure. The central courtyard serves as the heart of the design, facilitating social interactions and providing outdoor space for relaxation and communal gatherings. Large openings and windows throughout the building frame unobstructed views of the surrounding lava fields and wetlands, enhancing the visitor experience through a strong connection to the landscape.

The project employs a palette of locally sourced materials, including stone, timber, and stained larch boards. This choice not only emphasizes sustainability but also reflects the inherent characteristics of the site. The use of locally sourced stone for the walls establishes a sense of place, while timber elements add warmth and texture to the interiors. Stained larch boards as cladding harmonize the building with its natural surroundings.

One notable aspect of the Eyes of Mývatn is its design responsiveness to seasonal changes. The integration of green roofs and outdoor fire pits supports both environmental sustainability and cultural traditions. These features enhance visitor interaction with the local ecosystem and offer educational opportunities regarding the region's agricultural practices.

The Eyes of Mývatn represents a thoughtful approach to architecture, emphasizing harmony between built and natural environments, and a commitment to community and sustainability. The project highlights unique architectural ideas that facilitate engagement with the landscape while fostering a communal spirit.

For more detailed information, including architectural plans, sections, and designs, readers are encouraged to explore the full project presentation to gain deeper insights into the nuances and distinctive features of this architectural endeavor.

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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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