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Volcanic View and Agricultural Integration in Wooden Structures

Author:
Mohammad Pirdavari
Volcanic View and Agricultural Integration in Wooden Structures

Project in-detail

Elevated by an observatory tower that offers panoramic views of a nearby volcano, the design integrates agricultural spaces within wooden structures, creating a functional environment for dining and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observatory tower offers direct views of the nearby volcano.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels enhance structural performance and sustainability.
03
Integrated agricultural areas support local food production.
04
A circular ramp in the cinema hall allows for flexible seating arrangements.
05
Charred wooden shingles add to the building's durability and weather resistance.

The design is situated in a landscape defined by the presence of a volcano, which plays a crucial role in shaping its overall concept. This space focuses on fostering connections between the building and its environment. A key feature is a void created within a solid structure that serves as a lively core, allowing for easy movement and interaction throughout the various areas of the building.

Central Core Design

The void in the structure effectively creates an active hub that enhances communication within the building. It encourages exploration and facilitates movement between different functional spaces. Architectural energies are harnessed in this design—vertical, rotational, and diagonal forces are at play here. Together, they help create an engaging atmosphere that invites visitors to experience the interaction between the building and the natural setting.

Observatory Tower

A notable feature of the design is the observatory tower, which offers sweeping views of the surrounding area and the volcano itself. This space allows visitors to take in the landscape from a height, promoting reflection and awareness of the natural elements. Its placement is carefully considered to reinforce the connection between the architecture and its geographical context, creating an immersive experience that deepens engagement with the environment.

Cinema Hall and Multi-Use Spaces

The cinema hall is positioned strategically in the central area of the building. Its circular ramp design allows for flexible seating arrangements for screenings and other community events. The space can also be transformed into an open meeting area, serving different purposes throughout the year. In addition, the hall provides an excellent opportunity for watching the Aurora Borealis, bringing indoor and outdoor experiences together in a meaningful way.

Sustainability and Greenhouse Integration

Greenhouse areas are incorporated adjacent to spacious corridors, designed to maximize visibility of agricultural activities. These spaces support the growth of various organic crops and are integrated with sustainable irrigation systems to enhance resource efficiency. This design reflects a commitment to merging built environments with nature, promoting principles of conservation and sustainability.

Construction employs wooden structures supported by concrete columns, addressing issues of moisture and ensuring proper thermal control. The layout of functional zones is deliberate, emphasizing clarity while maintaining meaningful connections throughout the space. Large glass panels allow natural light to fill the interiors, further strengthening the relationship between indoor areas and the surrounding landscape.

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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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