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Bush-Hammered Concrete Elevating Views in Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Sahand Cory, Luis Koeferler
Bush-Hammered Concrete Elevating Views in Iceland's Landscape
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Stacked modules of bush-hammered concrete provide an elevated lookout that connects visitors to Iceland's dramatic landscape and its rich folklore.
5 key facts about this project
01
Stacked design enhances height and perspective while integrating with the volcanic landscape.
02
Bush-hammered concrete columns provide tactile connections to the site’s geology.
03
The lookout point emphasizes flexibility, allowing diverse uses of the interior space.
04
Glass facades maximize views and natural light, creating a seamless outdoor connection.
05
The project draws inspiration from Icelandic mythology, linking architecture to cultural narratives.

The Volcanic Look Out Point is located in the rugged landscape of Iceland, known for its geothermal features and rich folklore. It serves as a lookout, enabling visitors to connect with the striking beauty of the area. The design emphasizes minimalism and functionality, focusing on how the structure interacts with its surroundings and the stories embedded in the landscape.

Design Concept
The vision for the lookout point prioritizes simplicity in form. The structure is created to be flexible, allowing for various uses of its interior space. This intentional separation from specific functions creates possibilities for visitors. The arrangement of two different modules stacked in an alternating pattern encourages visual variety and provides an engaging spatial experience.

Structural Composition
The design features a structural shell that supports only ceilings and stairs, utilizing a system of standard elements. This method simplifies the construction process, making the structure adaptable while maintaining a consistent appearance. The layering of the modules adds height and depth, creating a sense of exploration as visitors navigate the space and its relationship to the landscape.

Materiality
Prefabricated concrete components play a key role in the construction, allowing for quick assembly on-site. The columns are designed with a bush-hammered surface, which connects the structure to the rugged volcanic environment. This textural detail distinguishes the columns from other elements. Additionally, glass facades provide an open view, inviting natural light and connecting the interior to the external landscape.

Design Detailing
The combination of solid and transparent materials influences how visitors experience the lookout point. Natural light fills the space, and the design fosters unobstructed views of the surrounding beauty. Designed around the story of Gerda and Gymir, the lookout point offers a grounded response to the Icelandic environment, inviting reflection on both nature and the narratives that shape it.

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Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

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The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

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