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Turf-Insulated Structure Integrating Geothermal Principles with Concrete and Steel Design for Visitor Experience

Author:
Stanisław Marek Stoczkiewicz
Turf-Insulated Structure Integrating Geothermal Principles with Concrete and Steel Design for Visitor Experience

Project in-detail

Turf insulation and a seamless integration of concrete and steel create a structurally efficient facility designed to enhance visitor interaction with Iceland's geothermal landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Turf insulation reflects traditional Icelandic building techniques while enhancing thermal efficiency.
02
The bent A-frame design maximizes structural integrity and snow load management.
03
Extensive glazing creates a seamless connection between indoor spaces and the surrounding landscape.
04
Concrete walls offer thermal mass benefits, absorbing heat for energy efficiency.
05
Strategic location prioritizes panoramic views of the geothermal terrain.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the architectural project emphasizes a sensitive integration with the region's striking geological features and geothermal activity. The design combines modern architectural principles with traditional Icelandic building methods, aiming to enhance user experience while providing a refuge amid the harsh climate of the landscape.

### Form and Spatial Strategy

The building's organic shape reflects the contours of the surrounding terrain, employing an elongated and undulating layout that enhances its contextual presence. This design allows for effective snow load management and rainwater drainage through strategically sloped roof angles. Internally, the open floor plan prioritizes social interaction and accessibility. Key functional areas include a refreshment station, restrooms, storage for equipment, and viewing decks which offer expansive views of the dramatic scenery, thereby fostering a strong connection between users and the environment.

### Materiality and Environmental Integration

The material selection emphasizes sustainability and thermal efficiency, incorporating concrete for its heat-absorbing qualities and turf insulation, reminiscent of historical Icelandic practices. Steel decking provides structural support while enhancing aesthetic integrity. The project's construction reflects a commitment to environmental consciousness, with careful attention to solar orientation optimizing natural lighting and passive solar heating, aligning with the sustainability goals of the design. By referencing traditional building techniques, the project not only honors Icelandic cultural heritage but also creates a functional space with modern applicability in extreme climatic conditions.

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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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