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Volcanic Cement Walls Framing Community Spaces in Iceland’s Natural Landscape

Authors:
Neil Damy, Nelida Leaño, Gabriela Gutierrez
Volcanic Cement Walls Framing Community Spaces in Iceland’s Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from volcanic cement walls and a wooden frame, the building creates a harmonious connection with the surrounding landscape while serving as a vibrant community hub for cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed with a southern orientation to maximize views of the Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano.
02
Incorporates a facade of volcanic cement-soil walls for natural insulation and integration with the environment.
03
Features a central theater space that fosters community interaction and cultural activities.
04
Utilizes a repeatable wooden frame system for efficient construction and reduced waste.
05
Enhances natural light entry through expansive tempered glass panels that frame outdoor landscapes.

The "Glass Wedge" stands as a thoughtful response to its surrounding environment, located near the Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano. It functions primarily as a cultural center, featuring a theater at its core, complemented by a reception area, bar, café, and gallery spaces. The design aims to blend harmoniously with the landscape, creating a connection between the built form and the natural setting.

Design Concept
Orientation plays a vital role in the design, with the building facing south to maximize views of the striking geological features nearby. This strategic positioning enhances the experience for visitors and emphasizes the relationship between the building and its environment. The concept is rooted in principles of sustainability, aiming for energy efficiency and a respectful coexistence with nature.

Materials
The project incorporates a carefully selected set of materials that align with its sustainable focus. A wooden frame forms the building's façade, paired with tempered glass and volcanic cement-soil walls. These materials not only contribute to the building's visual character but also help reduce maintenance needs, resulting in an efficient, practical structure.

Spatial Organization
The layout centers around the theater, which serves as a gathering space for the community and a venue for performances. Surrounding this main area are essential support spaces that promote social interaction among visitors. This arrangement creates a clear order within the building, making it easy for people to move from one area to another without confusion. It fosters a sense of community by encouraging connections between individuals in the various spaces.

Thematic Integration
The design reflects the geological identity of the region, with the volcanic cement-soil walls establishing a connection to the landscape. Large glass panels enhance the relationship with nature, allowing sunlight to flood the interior and framing captivating outside views. This approach results in a building that respects its context while offering a modern aesthetic, shaping an inviting and engaging atmosphere for all who enter.

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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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