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Cantilevered Observation Tower Over Tectonic Divide with Glass Floor

Author:
Gavin Thomas
Cantilevered Observation Tower Over Tectonic Divide with Glass Floor

Project in-detail

A cantilevered observation tower spans the tectonic divide, offering a glass floor view that allows visitors to stand on both continents while providing essential amenities and energy efficiency through an on-site geothermal power plant.
5 key facts about this project
01
A glass floor etched with the tectonic divide allows visitors to stand between two continents.
02
The structure is designed with fall arresters integrated into the staircase for safety.
03
On-site geothermal power generation ensures energy self-sufficiency for the building.
04
A cantilevered design enhances stability and provides unobstructed views of the landscape.
05
Expanded parking accommodates increased visitor access while minimizing environmental impact.

Ernir Verpa: The Eagles Nest is a cantilever observation tower located in Iceland, designed to span the divide between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. The structure serves as a viewpoint, allowing visitors to connect with the geological features of the region. The design focuses on facilitating interaction between people and the landscape, inviting them to experience the significance of this unique geographical location.

Observation Platform
The observation platform is a key feature of the tower, providing space for 6 to 8 visitors at a height of 13.5 meters. Made with a glass floor that features an etched line marking the continental divide, this element allows guests to physically stand on both continents at once. A glass balustrade surrounds the platform for safety, ensuring that views of the surrounding landscape are unobstructed. A polished canopy protects the area from weather elements, allowing visitors to use the space in comfort.

Safety and Accessibility
Safety measures are a central part of the design. A staircase leads to the observation area, equipped with fall arresters every 10 steps to ensure visitor security. An added lower observation deck provides further accessibility for individuals who may have difficulty reaching the main area. By offering multiple levels for viewing, the design caters to a wider range of visitors, enhancing their experiences in this remarkable setting.

Sustainability and Infrastructure
The design emphasizes sustainability, featuring a geothermal power plant that generates electricity on-site. This self-sufficient approach reduces reliance on external energy sources. Wastewater management is handled through a specialized biological treatment system, created to require minimal upkeep. The project also includes expanded parking facilities to manage visitor access, which has been carefully planned to reduce environmental impact.

Visitor Amenities
On the ground floor, essential amenities are provided for visitors. A reception area with a kitchenette, café seating, and restroom facilities enhance the visitor's experience. The café can accommodate 22 guests indoors, with additional seating available on a covered terrace. These amenities complement the tower's primary function, making it more than just a viewpoint but also a place for community and relaxation.

The construction utilizes prefabricated galvanized tubular steel sections, which allow for quick assembly and reinforce the structural stability against Iceland's harsh weather. This material choice reflects an understanding of the environment and practical design.

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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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