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Timber-Framed Wellness Space Incorporating Geothermal Energy and Local Stone Elements

Authors:
Andrew Galloway, Duong Diep, Catherine Breen
Timber-Framed Wellness Space Incorporating Geothermal Energy and Local Stone Elements

Project in-detail

Utilizing locally sourced stone and a modular timber frame, this architectural endeavor integrates geothermal heating into its design, creating a versatile space focused on wellness and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes locally sourced stone to enhance the structure’s integration with the landscape.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating systems to optimize energy efficiency throughout the year.
03
Features a modular timber frame that allows for future expansion based on community needs.
04
Includes a Zen garden to promote wellness and mindfulness within the design.
05
Employs extensive glass elements to create a strong connection between interior spaces and the outdoors.

The Mývatn Nature House is an architectural project located in Iceland, specifically designed to align with the natural landscape of the Mývatn region. This structure utilizes a modular approach to integrate seamlessly with its surroundings, emphasizing sustainability and community engagement. The design is based on a series of repetitive timber-framed cubes, readily adaptable for various functions such as wellness activities, dining, and educational workshops. The architecture aims to create a multi-purpose space that serves both the local community and visitors, fostering connections to the natural environment.

Unique to the Mývatn Nature House is its focus on local materials and renewable energy. The construction harnesses sustainably sourced timber, extensive glass features for natural lighting, and local stone walls that blend aesthetically with the landscape. Additionally, geothermal systems provide heating, minimizing the building's environmental impact and emphasizing eco-friendly practices. This project highlights the importance of regional context and the use of materials that resonate with the Icelandic ethos.

One of the defining characteristics of the Mývatn Nature House is its architectural adaptability. The design incorporates operable roofs, allowing for improved ventilation and climate control. The layout includes multi-functional spaces, such as a large hall for yoga and events, a greenhouse integrated with the restaurant, and outdoor areas that enhance user interaction with the environment. The Zen garden offers a tranquil area promoting wellness, reflecting the design's commitment to incorporating nature into daily activities.

Sustainability is a core principle woven throughout the design. The building integrates modular elements, allowing for future expansion or modification based on community needs. This approach not only addresses current functional requirements but also anticipates potential changes over time. By prioritizing ecological considerations and community integration, the Mývatn Nature House serves as an example for future architectural endeavors in sensitive ecological regions.

For a deeper understanding of the architectural plans, sections, design details, and unique architectural ideas present within the Mývatn Nature House, readers are encouraged to explore the comprehensive project presentation.

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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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