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Volcano-Inspired Roof Embraces Night Sky in Sustainable Community Hub

Authors:
Boris Papeians, Marine Burtonboy, Julien de Muynck
Volcano-Inspired Roof Embraces Night Sky in Sustainable Community Hub

Project in-detail

The design's volcano-inspired roof minimizes light pollution while offering expansive views of the night sky, supporting a sustainable dining experience and indoor farming in a community-focused environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Roof design mimics a volcano, enhancing aesthetic appeal and functionality.
02
Integrates indoor farming with dining spaces for a farm-to-table experience.
03
Promotes community engagement through designated multipurpose areas.
04
Utilizes a minimal visual profile to blend with the natural landscape.
05
Visibility of structural elements creates a rhythmic interior atmosphere.

The design elements of the building respond thoughtfully to its geographical setting, characterized by long nights and dark scenery. It features a low-rising form reminiscent of a lighthouse, allowing for necessary visibility without dominating the landscape. The overall concept integrates sustainability with food production, aiming to create an inviting atmosphere for a variety of users, from families to the elderly.

Architecture Concept

At the heart of the design is a small roof shaped like a volcano, encouraging a connection to the night sky while minimizing light pollution. This choice combines both visual appeal and functionality, enhancing the experience of being in a natural setting.

Spatial Organization

The building is strategically positioned to take advantage of the site’s topography and views. There is space for potential future expansion, and the design includes an open-air parking area. Visitors first enter through a clear entrance space, which serves as a transition into the building and prepares them for the experience to come.

Functional Zoning

Interior areas are divided into distinct zones, such as a closed-off outdoor spot, a well-oriented terrace, and a multipurpose area. This thoughtful zoning allows for various activities, fostering interaction among visitors. Additionally, there are pocket spaces within the greenhouse designed for private dining or team-building events centered around sustainability, promoting community involvement.

Material Transparency

The building’s structure is defined by visible columns and beams that add rhythm and depth to the interior. The open plan encourages connectivity between spaces and utilizes large windows to invite natural light inside. The integration of the greenhouse and restaurant provides an opportunity for diners to observe the growth of their food, reinforcing the relationship between what is cultivated and what is consumed.

Each design detail contributes to a cohesive environment, highlighting the interaction between architecture and the natural landscape. The thoughtful arrangement promotes engagement with both nature and community, creating a space where people can connect and learn about sustainability.

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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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