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Volcanic Rock and Frosted Glass Intersecting Geological Forces in a Community Space

Author:
Suchitra Van
Volcanic Rock and Frosted Glass Intersecting Geological Forces in a Community Space
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Set against the backdrop of the tectonic divide, a crevice formed by natural geological shifts connects a Movie Theater and an Event Space, enriched by volcanic rock and frosted glass to create a community hub that resonates with its unique landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crevice design reflects geological shifts, enhancing spatial experience.
02
Movie Theater roof features coarse volcanic rock for natural integration.
03
Event Space utilizes a rhomboidal shape inspired by Feldspar crystals.
04
Frosted glass panels create dynamic lighting effects throughout the interiors.
05
Lower level includes facilities for a Film Makers Residency program.

Hreyfing Hús is located near the tectonic divide between Europe and America. Its setting is significant and influences the overall design. The concept focuses on the natural movements of the earth, reflected in the structure's layout. The project consists of two main areas: a Movie Theater and an Event Space. A central crevice connects these two buildings, emphasizing the geological activity characteristic of the region.

Movie Theater

The Movie Theater offers a unique experience reminiscent of the nearby Grjótagjá caves. Its roof rises above ground level and incorporates coarse volcanic rock, allowing the structure to blend with the landscape. Visitors enter through a descending pathway that leads to the theater’s interior. Inside, natural light filters through frosted glass, creating a dynamic atmosphere that enhances the viewing experience. The design encourages immersion, inviting audiences to connect with both the film and their surroundings.

Event Space

Designed for flexibility, the Event Space accommodates various activities, ranging from casual gatherings to formal events. Large glass walls provide sweeping views of the landscape, breaking down the barriers between the inside and the outdoors. The building's shape draws inspiration from the natural forms of Feldspar crystals, reinforcing its connection to the environment. This thoughtful arrangement promotes social interaction, making it a welcoming place for the community.

Transitional Areas

A ground-level transitional area serves as the entrance to the Event Space. This space features both indoor and outdoor seating with a sunken fire pit as a focal point. The design aims to facilitate easy movement, guiding visitors seamlessly from one space to another. The connection between the structures is clear, enhancing the experience of being surrounded by the earth's forces.

The lower level is dedicated to functions that support a Film Makers Residency program, including studio and editing spaces. Accessed via the crevice, this area reinforces the design's cohesive theme. The use of practical spaces ensures that Hreyfing Hús addresses creative needs while maintaining its connection to the larger environment.

Sustainability is a key consideration, evident in the choice of materials used throughout the project. Volcanic rock, metal, and concrete provide contextually relevant solutions that respect the area’s resources. Light penetrates through carefully placed glass panes, contributing to a calm and inviting ambiance. As visitors explore the crevice, they engage with the environment, drawing parallels between the structure and the geological processes that shaped it.

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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

Open architecture competitions

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    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
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Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 September 2025

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