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Volcanic-Inspired Structures Featuring Recycled Containers and Transparent Facades for Immersive Natural Experiences

Authors:
Raymond Ho, Clemente Guarda, Kim Chen
Volcanic-Inspired Structures Featuring Recycled Containers and Transparent Facades for Immersive Natural Experiences

Project in-detail

Recycled container structures with volcanic forms and expansive glass facades create immersive vantage points for observing the Northern Lights, offering guests a unique lodging experience in Iceland’s pristine landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled cube containers are utilized as the main structural element for sustainability.
02
The design incorporates large glass panels that frame views of the Northern Lights.
03
A volcanic-inspired form enhances the building's integration with the surrounding landscape.
04
Skylights in each cabin provide additional natural light and enhance the viewing experience.
05
Modular construction allows for flexibility and relocation of cabins as needed.

## Overview

The Iceland Northern Lights Rooms project is located in Iceland’s striking volcanic landscape, aiming to harmonize architectural design with the natural environment. The intent is to create adaptable accommodation that enhances visitor experiences while prioritizing sustainability and ecological integrity.

## Spatial Configuration

The architectural concept features a duality in form: one side draws inspiration from volcanic structures, while the opposite facade is primarily transparent, capitalizing on views of the Northern Lights. This design approach promotes versatility within the space, catering to the varying needs of guests and fostering an immersive interaction with the surrounding landscape.

## Materiality and Construction

The building incorporates sustainable materials, specifically recycled cube containers used in modular construction, allowing for a minimal ecological footprint and ease of relocation. Wooden cladding adds a natural aesthetic and helps integrate the structure into its environment, while large glass panels maximize natural light and frame expansive sky views. The compact design of modular cabins accommodates four guests and includes strategically placed skylights and glass doors, enhancing the experience of viewing the Northern Lights.

## Site Planning Considerations

The master plan organizes the site into distinct zones, including individual cabins, host and guest houses, as well as essential amenities such as parking and boat piers. This layout not only facilitates ease of access but also enhances the functionality of the overall development. Each element is designed to connect visitors with the landscape, ensuring comfort through the use of warm, natural materials and fostering a deep emotional engagement with Iceland's natural beauty.

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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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