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Caves Below Glass Floors and Volcanic Rock Walls in an Icelandic Observation Tower

Author:
Mark Goodman
Caves Below Glass Floors and Volcanic Rock Walls in an Icelandic Observation Tower

Project in-detail

With a central observation tower extending into underground caves and a blend of crystalline structures and volcanic rock walls, the design offers an immersive educational experience about Iceland's geological features.
5 key facts about this project
01
A central observation tower connects directly to an intricate underground cave system.
02
Crystalline structures resemble glacial formations, enhancing the site's geological theme.
03
Transparent glass floors provide views into the subterranean caves, enriching visitor engagement.
04
Volcanic rock walls create natural enclosures while promoting social interaction.
05
A sunken courtyard features a modern farmhouse-like building for communal and educational activities.

The Iceland Cave Tower is located within the striking volcanic landscapes of Iceland. It serves as a landmark that connects the surface and the underground world. The design offers an immersive experience for visitors, giving them insight into the geological features that shape the region. The overall concept centers around the meeting of two continents, reflecting the complex movements of tectonic plates while inviting exploration and learning.

Central Observation Tower

At the core of the design is an observation tower that stands tall above the natural terrain. This tower provides extensive views of the landscape surrounding it. It also extends below ground to link with the unique cave systems that lie beneath. This feature encourages visitors to engage with both the beautiful scenery above and the fascinating geological structures below.



Crystalline Surroundings

Surrounding the central tower are crystalline structures that offer various functions, including waiting areas, offices, and restrooms. These structures are shaped like shards, mirroring the appearance of ice formations. This design element adds to the connection with the Icelandic environment. Glass floors are present in some areas, allowing visitors to see into the cave system beneath, enhancing their overall experience and encouraging exploration.



Social and Educational Spaces

Next to the observation tower is a sunken courtyard featuring a building designed to resemble a modern farmhouse. This building houses a café and information center, providing both indoor and outdoor seating. The layout supports social interaction among visitors while also offering educational opportunities. Accessibility is a priority, with wide steps and ramps ensuring all guests can navigate the area comfortably and engage with the space.



Pathways and Cave Access

The design incorporates modular pathways made from a blend of aluminum and wood, lifted above the lava fields to reduce environmental impact. These pathways connect different parts of the site, guiding visitors toward the Vogagjá Cave and its geological wonders. A circular pavilion contains a spiral stairwell, enhancing the experience as visitors descend into the cave. At night, the lighting adds a visual dimension to the tower.

Clear signs in multiple languages help guide visitors through the site, making it easier for everyone to learn about Iceland's rich geological history. The thoughtful details in the design contribute to an engaging and informative experience for all who visit.

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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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