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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
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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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Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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