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Angular Concrete Towers with Expansive Glass Panels Embracing the Icelandic Landscape

Author:
David Thompson
Angular Concrete Towers with Expansive Glass Panels Embracing the Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled along a tectonic fault line, the angular concrete towers with expansive glass panels reflect the raw beauty of the Icelandic landscape while providing communal spaces for observation and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design incorporates angular forms that mimic the geological features of the fault line.
02
Each tower is strategically positioned to provide optimal views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
03
The project utilizes reinforced concrete for structural integrity, ensuring durability in harsh weather conditions.
04
Large glass panels are used to create a seamless indoor-outdoor connection, enhancing the visual experience.
05
Sustainable geothermal heating systems are integrated, utilizing the natural resources of the region efficiently.
The project known as The Towers of Vogar represents a thoughtful exploration of architectural design within the unique context of the volcanic landscape of Iceland. This architectural endeavor features four distinct towers, each aligned along a tectonic fault line, introducing a narrative that intertwines the story of geological forces with human habitation. The design concept draws inspiration from the region’s geological history, effectively merging architecture with the natural environment in a way that respects and enhances its setting.

Functionally, The Towers of Vogar serve as a multifaceted space for both observation and contemplation. Each tower is designed with specific uses in mind, accommodating public areas for communal gatherings, as well as private spaces for individual reflection. This duality underscores a central theme of the project: the balance between collective experience and personal engagement with the surrounding landscape. Visitors can traverse the site via a carefully designed walkway that interlinks the towers, encouraging exploration and creating a journey that invites interaction with Iceland's dramatic geographical features. The incorporation of viewing decks in strategic locations allows for an unobstructed perspective of the stunning natural vistas, engaging visitors in the beauty of the location.

The architectural design showcases a careful selection of materials that harmonize with the rugged terrain. Reinforced concrete forms the primary structure, providing both strength and resilience against the harsh Icelandic climate. Expansive panels of glass are used to enhance the visual connection between the interior and the exterior, flooding the interiors with natural light and framing breathtaking views of the volcanic landscape. The integration of steel in the framing of walkways and support structures adds a modern touch while maintaining the overall structural integrity of each tower.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project. The geometric forms of the towers—skewed and angular—reflect the instability of the fault line, encapsulating a sense of dynamism and transformation. Each tower’s inclination is not merely decorative but serves to embody the geological phenomena at play, inviting visitors to consider the forces that shaped the land they occupy. This architectural language encourages a deeper reflection on the relationship between nature and human creation. Additionally, the architectural design effectively addresses sustainability through the implementation of geothermal heating systems, showcasing a responsible approach to environmental stewardship in a region known for its natural geothermal energy.

As visitors engage with the project, they will find that The Towers of Vogar embody more than just a physical structure; they represent a dialogue between the earth’s history and contemporary architectural practice. The thoughtful integration of the design with its landscape highlights the intelligence behind the project, as it allows for a nuanced experience that maximizes the potential of the site while retaining respect for its heritage.

For those interested in delving deeper into the unique aspects of The Towers of Vogar, a comprehensive presentation of the project can provide valuable insights. Exploring architectural plans, architectural sections, and innovative architectural designs will offer an enriched understanding of the project’s context, materiality, and conceptual foundations, ultimately revealing the intricacies of this compelling architectural idea.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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