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Volcanic Ash and Glass Facade With Uninterrupted Views of Mývatn Nature Baths

Authors:
Maciej Misiak, Dawid Mazanek, Bogumiła Mączkowska
Volcanic Ash and Glass Facade With Uninterrupted Views of Mývatn Nature Baths

Project in-detail

Incorporating volcanic ash and expansive glass panels, the design offers unobstructed views of the Mývatn Nature Baths while providing an immersive dining experience within a thoughtfully arranged interior landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Uses concrete infused with local volcanic ash for regional connection.
02
Features large glass panels for unobstructed views of the surrounding landscape.
03
Incorporates a multi-purpose hall elevated above the dining area.
04
Includes hidden pathways for staff to optimize service without disturbing guests.
05
Greenery surrounds dining spaces to enhance the connection with nature.

The design emerges from a careful understanding of its natural context, located near the Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall volcano. Its primary function is to offer a dining experience that allows visitors to connect with the stunning landscape. The concept centers around the relationship between light and shadow, guiding individuals through spaces that shift from dark to well-lit areas.

Spatial Arrangement

The layout of the restaurant is organized to balance privacy and interaction. Tables are arranged with enough distance to provide diners with personal space, yet allow for views of the outside. The presence of greenery throughout the dining area enhances the natural feel, reinforcing the aim of merging the indoor experience with the environment outside.

Structural Composition

Concrete is the main material used for construction, mixed with local volcanic ash to reflect the geological character of the region. This decision not only roots the design in its locality but also contributes to its modern appearance. Large glass panels are employed to maximize natural light, creating a strong connection between the interior and the outside spaces, which are filled with natural beauty.

Circulation and Service

The design includes well-thought-out pathways for movement that make daily operations smooth without disturbing guests. There are clear routes for staff, where waiters share paths with diners, while gardeners use a discreet central corridor. Chefs also have access to their work areas without interfering with the dining experience. This careful planning ensures efficient service while keeping the focus on visitor enjoyment.

Design Details

A prominent feature of the building is the large, continuous window on the southern side, offering wide views of the Mývatn Nature Baths and Hverfjall volcano. This design choice greatly enhances the visual connection between the building and the stunning landscape. In addition, an oculus in the roof of the multi-purpose hall introduces varied lighting, resulting in an interesting play of light and shadow that enriches the interior space.

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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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