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Volcanic Cement Walls Framing Natural Light in a Community Theater

Authors:
Neil Damy, Nelida Leaño, Gabriela Gutierrez
Volcanic Cement Walls Framing Natural Light in a Community Theater

Project in-detail

Constructed with volcanic cement walls and a wooden frame, the theater maximizes natural light and views of the Grjótagjá caves, creating a dynamic communal space for cultural activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with volcanic cement-soil walls, the design reflects the local geology.
02
The wooden frame utilizes a repeatable design for efficient construction.
03
Large glass surfaces enhance natural light and create visual connections to the landscape.
04
The building's orientation focuses on views of the Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano.
05
A green roof provides insulation while integrating the structure with its environment.

The Glass Wedge project demonstrates a thoughtful integration of built form with the natural environment, particularly emphasizing the prominent features of Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano. The design centers around a theater that serves as a gathering space for people, while the overall concept reflects simplicity and efficiency. By orienting the structure towards the south, the design maximizes views and allows for ample natural light to enter the building, creating an inviting atmosphere.

Materiality
The building's façade features a wooden frame combined with tempered glass. This choice captures views of the surrounding landscape while maintaining a connection between the inside and outside. Volcanic cement-soil walls create a strong link to the regional identity, ensuring durability while being sensitive to the local context.

Spatial Organization
The theater acts as the heart of the design, with functional spaces like the reception area, café, bar, and gallery arranged around it. This layout encourages interaction and engagement among visitors, making the building a venue for social activities. The spaces are designed for clarity and ease of movement, facilitating a natural flow between different areas.

Sustainability
Sustainability is a priority in the Glass Wedge design. By focusing on energy-efficient strategies and material choices, the project respects its environment. The roof is designed to include vegetation, which provides insulation and enhances the aesthetic quality. This ecological approach aligns with current trends in sustainable architecture.

Natural light plays a crucial role in the interior, enriching spaces and creating changing atmospheres throughout the day. The design emphasizes the relationship between the structure and its site, highlighting the importance of creating a welcoming space for the community to enjoy.

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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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