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Cabled Viewing Tower Crafted from Regional Steel and Transparent Glass in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Alexandra Georgescu, Tomas Kozelsky, Viktor Odstrčilík
Cabled Viewing Tower Crafted from Regional Steel and Transparent Glass in Iceland's Volcanic Landscape
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Rising above the rugged Icelandic terrain, a slender viewing tower constructed from regional steel and transparent glass provides visitors with panoramic perspectives while merging seamlessly with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The viewing tower employs a unique cable support system that enhances stability in high winds.
02
Extensive use of transparent glass reflects the surrounding landscape, creating a visual synergy with nature.
03
Visitors can access multiple open platforms at various heights to capture different perspectives of the terrain.
04
Sustainable energy solutions are integrated into the visitor center, minimizing ecological impact.
05
The design incorporates locally sourced materials to align with environmental and cultural context.

The Yfir Landturn project is an architectural intervention located in Iceland, designed to serve as both a viewing tower and a visitor center. The project provides visitors with a space to appreciate the unique geological features of the surrounding landscape. Its core function revolves around enhancing the user experience through strategic viewpoints while accommodating educational facilities related to the area's natural and cultural heritage.

The Yfir Landturn structure consists of a slender viewing tower that rises above the terrain, offering expansive sightlines over the rugged Icelandic landscape. The design incorporates pathways that guide visitors through the site, connecting the viewing tower with the visitor center and parking areas. This deliberate layout underscores the duality of engaging with nature and facilitating visitor interaction with the architecture.

Innovative Structural Solutions and Materiality

The project's structural integrity is achieved through a system of exposed steel framing, which not only provides stability but also creates a visual contrast against the natural environment. The use of glass for the tower’s façades allows for maximum transparency, providing unobstructed views while allowing the structure to reflect its surroundings. Elevating the visitor experience further, the open-air staircases spiral around the tower, offering opportunities for rest and reflection at various heights.

Consideration for sustainability is evident in the choice of materials, including locally sourced concrete and metal mesh. The latter serves aesthetic purposes while ensuring safety and wind resistance. Additionally, the visitor center incorporates renewable energy solutions, enhancing the project's environmental performance.

Architectural Integration with the Landscape

A significant aspect that sets this project apart from conventional viewing platforms is its seamless integration with the rugged Icelandic terrain. The design replicates the natural topography through its pathways, which mimic the layout of the land and promote a sense of exploration. Visitors are led not only to appreciate the structure but also to connect with the landscape itself.

Incorporating space for educational elements, such as informational displays and a café, the visitor center caters to both leisure and learning. The dual approach of providing functional spaces while ensuring architectural coherence with the environment distinguishes Yfir Landturn from similar projects.

For more detailed exploration of the architectural plans, architectural sections, and various architectural designs, viewers are encouraged to examine the project presentation for a comprehensive understanding of its innovative ideas and features.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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