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Basalt Stone and Warm Tones in a Natural Landscape Observation Space

Authors:
Devan Becker, Brianna Stonebraker, Chad Bolte, Britney Ornellas
Basalt Stone and Warm Tones in a Natural Landscape Observation Space

Project in-detail

Constructed with locally sourced basalt stone and warm-toned hardwood, the observation space integrates into Iceland's rugged landscape while providing a dynamic experience for visitors exploring the natural surroundings.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced basalt stone for enhanced sustainability.
02
Features a glass bridge that allows visitors to connect with the surrounding landscape.
03
The design includes warm-toned hardwood interiors to promote comfort and warmth.
04
Vertical movement mimics Icelandic geological formations, enhancing user experience.
05
Incorporates a green roof to manage stormwater and improve energy efficiency.

Spiralinn is located in the dramatic landscape of Iceland, designed to connect visitors with their surroundings. It functions as a multi-use space that encourages exploration and interaction with the environment. The design focuses on the themes of light and water, creating a structure that allows people to ascend towards the sky or descend into ice caves.

Vertical Movement

The project highlights vertical movement, giving visitors the experience of changing elevations within the building. This upward and downward journey mimics the natural geological formations found in Iceland, resembling the rise of a volcano or the fall into an ice cave. Through this design, Spiralinn strengthens the relationship between the architecture and the landscape.

Fluid Design Forms

The building features smooth, curved forms that reflect the movement of water and the natural shapes of the surrounding environment. These ribbon-like structures blend with the landscape and promote a connection between the built space and nature. Ample natural light pours into the interiors, enriching the experience for those who enter.

Architectural Elements

A key feature of Spiralinn is the glass bridge that crosses the fissure, allowing visitors to traverse safely while enjoying views of the landscape. This design not only serves its purpose as a pathway but also connects different areas of the tower visually. The main tower is positioned within the slope of the fissure, ensuring stability while guiding visitors downward to the ice caves.

Sustainable Integration

Sustainability is a significant aspect of the project. Geothermal heating systems are implemented to reduce energy use in the cold climate of Iceland. This heating ensures a comfortable environment for visitors, particularly during winter months. Additionally, the green roof absorbs rainwater and helps regulate temperature, promoting environmental responsibility.

The interior spaces utilize locally sourced hardwood and basalt stone, enhancing the connection to Iceland's natural landscape. The warm, muted tones create an inviting atmosphere, allowing visitors to appreciate the surroundings as they move through the building.

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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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