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Turf Walls Embracing Volcanic Forms in Community Spaces

Author:
Marcelo Ramos soto
Turf Walls Embracing Volcanic Forms in Community Spaces

Project in-detail

With turf walls that echo the region's volcanic landscape, the design creates a functional community space integrating a Coffee Shop, Information block, and Exhibition Hall.
5 key facts about this project
01
Turf walls designed to reflect traditional Icelandic building practices.
02
Integrated water reservoirs within each program block for functionality.
03
Volcanic-inspired layout enhances the connection with the surrounding landscape.
04
Access ramps promote inclusivity and ease of movement throughout the space.
05
Internal distribution supports fluid circulation between the Coffee Shop and Exhibition Hall.

The design presents a contemporary reinterpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture, inspired by the characteristics of turf houses. Located in a landscape defined by geological features, the layout consists of three distinct program blocks: a Coffee Shop, an Information block, and an Exhibition Hall. These blocks are arranged to evoke the form of a volcano, reflecting the natural environment and emphasizing the relationship between the structure and its surroundings.

Usage of Turf Materials

Turf walls and turf roofs are key components of the design, following local building traditions. These materials serve a practical purpose, providing thermal insulation and energy efficiency. By using natural materials, the design highlights sustainability while connecting to Iceland's architectural heritage.

Functional Efficiency

Each block includes essential facilities such as water reservoirs, W.C. facilities, and storage areas, ensuring that the design is functionally effective. The arrangement allows for easy movement among spaces, enhancing the user experience. Attention has been given to the flow of areas, with access ramps and platforms designed to facilitate navigation while connecting the various blocks.

Spatial Arrangement and Enclosures

The internal organization supports an open flow between different spaces. Turf walls create sheltered environments that offer comfort and maintain a connection to the landscape outside. This thoughtful spatial arrangement fosters interaction and helps users engage with both the architecture and the natural setting.

A defining aspect is how the three blocks visually integrate to reflect a modern take on volcanic forms. The careful alignment and variation in height create a dynamic skyline against the Icelandic backdrop. This relationship with nature contributes to a coherent architectural identity, one that respects and acknowledges the surrounding environment.

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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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