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Basalt Fiber and Glass Elevate Observation of Iceland's Natural Caves

Authors:
Emirhan Veyseloglu, Gozde Yilmaz, Daniel can Wittek
Basalt Fiber and Glass Elevate Observation of Iceland's Natural Caves

Project in-detail

Carved from a monolithic cube and utilizing basalt fiber and glass, the observation tower provides a thoughtful connection to Iceland's natural cave systems while offering visitors exceptional views and essential amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
The observation platform is elevated 11 meters, providing expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
02
The building uses basalt fiber bars for load-bearing structures, reflecting local geological resources.
03
Interior passages are designed to mimic the experience of navigating through natural caves.
04
Kvennagja Cave is directly accessible from the observation deck, enhancing visitor interaction with nature.
05
A large glass opening on the second floor connects indoor spaces to the dynamic outdoor environment.

Grid Stone Observation Tower is located in the unique geological landscape of Iceland and reflects the natural formations found in caves. The design integrates both an observation platform and a visitor center, encouraging engagement with the area’s striking rift. The overall concept emphasizes open spaces that mimic cave environments, providing guests with a meaningful connection to the surrounding nature.

Structure and Circulation

The main structure is a large cube, with narrow passages carved within it to give the feeling of exploring a cave. These passageways allow visitors to move freely through different levels of the building. Each circulation path is carefully planned to enhance the experience of the users as they interact with the space around them, creating an inviting flow.

Elevated Spaces

A notable feature is the observation platform, which is raised to a height of 11 meters. From this vantage point, visitors can enjoy panoramic views of the landscape. Access to the platform is achieved through a series of ramps and stairs, which connect the building to the ground. This design not only offers views of the rift but also helps visitors appreciate the terrain’s natural beauty.

Functional Areas

The first floor adopts a forked layout with seating areas and a café, providing spaces for relaxation and enjoyment of the scenery. On the second floor, a large glass opening invites light and creates a connection to the outdoors. This level includes a bar and additional seating, promoting social interaction among visitors and providing a space to gather and enjoy refreshments.

Material Considerations

Key materials used in the construction include basalt fiber bars and concrete. The basalt fiber bars serve as load-bearing elements, supporting the structure, while their availability in Iceland contributes to the project’s environmental sensitivity. Concrete forms the foundation, offering necessary stability, and glass panels in the façade enhance views and protect against weather conditions.

The design achieves a thoughtful relationship between the observation platform and the surrounding environment, using well-designed openings to create patterns of light and shadow. This attention to detail allows visitors to engage with the space in a meaningful way as they explore the various levels of the tower.

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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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