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Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Energy Elevate a Sustainable Visitor Experience in Iceland

Authors:
Ramiro Carro, Santiago Perez, Facundo Hernandez, Juliana Lareu
Charred Wooden Shingles and Geothermal Energy Elevate a Sustainable Visitor Experience in Iceland

Project in-detail

Utilizing charred wooden shingles and integrating geothermal energy, this architectural endeavor enhances the visitor experience while seamlessly connecting with Iceland's extraordinary landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Incorporates charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Designed with cross-laminated timber panels that streamline construction while reducing site impact.
03
Features a bent A-frame structure that optimally channels snow and rain runoff.
04
Utilizes geothermal energy systems to power heating and minimize environmental footprint.
05
Enhances visitor engagement through integrated pathways that connect with natural landscape elements.
The Iceland Cave Tower is an architectural project that emerges from and harmonizes with the dramatic landscape of Iceland. This design seeks to encapsulate the spirit of the surrounding environment while providing a functional space for visitors to engage deeply with the natural world. It represents a thoughtful integration of architecture and nature, emphasizing an exploratory experience that encourages interactions with the exceptional geological features found in this unique locale.

Functionally, the Iceland Cave Tower serves multiple purposes. The two primary sections of the design are the Kvennagjá roof and the Grjótagjá roof, which together provide essential visitor facilities and observation areas. The Kvennagjá roof functions as an information center and café, designed to welcome guests and provide them with resources about the surrounding site. It includes amenities such as restrooms and locker rooms, allowing visitors to comfortably prepare for their exploration. In contrast, the Grjótagjá roof is dedicated to observation, creating a space where people can absorb the breathtaking beauty of the landscape. This combination of functionality highlights the emphasis on visitor experience while ensuring that essential needs are met.

Attention to detail is evident throughout the project’s design. The architecture exhibits a modular quality, which offers flexibility for future growth as visitor numbers increase. This adaptability is crucial in a region where tourism is a vital part of the local economy. The layout of the structures encourages movement through the site, allowing visitors to encounter various aspects of the location as they transition between different spaces. Careful consideration has been given to the aesthetics of the buildings, with materials and forms that relate closely to the surrounding topography.

The Kvennagjá roof features expansive glass windows, allowing natural light to filter into the space and creating connections to the outside environment. This thoughtful use of glass not only enhances the interior experience but also positions the architecture as a focal point against the rugged backdrop. The Grjótagjá roof, on the other hand, employs sloped surfaces that echo the forms of the surrounding land, effectively blending the architectural elements with their geographical context.

Sustainability is an integral component of this project, evident in the material choices that prioritize local resources. Wood sourced from the region provides structural support as well as warmth and texture to the interiors. Metal elements are used for their strength and durability, ensuring that the buildings can withstand the varying weather patterns characteristic of Iceland. The inclusion of solar panels reflects a commitment to renewable energy, aligning the project with contemporary standards for sustainable architecture.

One unique aspect of the Iceland Cave Tower is its narrative approach to design. The concept reflects a deep inspiration drawn from the geological formations and the indigenous stories tied to the land. This notion of storytelling through architecture enhances the visitor's engagement, facilitating a deeper understanding and appreciation of the cultural history embedded in the landscape.

Exploring the various architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs of this project will reveal a wealth of detail regarding the thoughtful methodologies employed in its development. By examining these elements, one can appreciate the careful consideration for both the environment and visitor experience that has shaped the Iceland Cave Tower. For additional insights into the artistic and functional scope of this architectural endeavor, it is encouraged to delve into the full project presentation, which outlines the innovative concepts that underscore this design.
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100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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