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Charred Wooden Shingles and Lava Stone Form a Community Observation Tower Embracing Icelandic Heritage

Authors:
Hector Parga, Ethan Dingwell
Charred Wooden Shingles and Lava Stone Form a Community Observation Tower Embracing Icelandic Heritage

Project in-detail

Built from locally sourced lava stone and charred wooden shingles, the observation tower creates an immersive experience that connects visitors to Iceland's geological heritage while serving as a communal space for engagement and reflection.
5 key facts about this project
01
The structure employs locally sourced lava stone, enhancing its contextual relevance to the Icelandic landscape.
02
Charred wooden shingles are used not only for aesthetics but also for their fire-resistant properties, ensuring durability.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural strength while maintaining a lightweight design conducive to the site's seismic activity.
04
The bent A-frame design facilitates optimal panoramic views of the surrounding terrain, enhancing visitor experience and engagement with nature.
05
Community spaces are integrated throughout the tower, promoting social interaction and educational opportunities about local geology and culture.
The Iceland Cave Tower is an architectural project that encapsulates the geological and cultural essence of its Icelandic landscape. Positioned amidst dramatic natural features, the tower serves multiple functions while providing a unique space for both reflection and engagement with the surrounding environment. This project not only represents an architectural endeavor but also acts as a narrative medium, connecting visitors to the rich history and geological significance of the area.

At its core, the Iceland Cave Tower stands as a monument to the duality present in Iceland’s tectonic formation, where two continental plates diverge. The design features two segmented towers that symbolize these separating landmasses, creating a visual representation that resonates with the cultural and historical context of the location. The base of the structure is constructed from local lava stone, a material chosen for its historical relevance and connection to Iceland’s volcanic landscape. This deliberate choice not only reinforces the stability of the tower but also roots the project firmly within its geographical context, making it a physical manifestation of the natural environment.

Visitors are welcomed into a multifunctional space designed to offer panoramic views of the stunning Icelandic landscape. A key feature of the Iceland Cave Tower is the observation deck, which invites guests to immerse themselves in the surrounding beauty while facilitating educational encounters with the region’s geological and cultural narratives. An experience of nature is further enriched by carefully designed multi-level browsing platforms that connect the two towers via a bridge, enhancing visitor movement and interaction throughout the structure.

The materiality of the project plays a significant role in its overall impact. Wood is utilized in the upper sections of the towers, creating a warm contrast to the rugged lava stone below. This choice of materials promotes a harmonious dialogue between the architecture and its natural surroundings, enhancing the tactile experience for visitors. Additionally, strategically placed glass openings allow natural light to filter into the interior spaces, fostering a sense of connection between the inside of the tower and the expansive views outside.

The ground level of the Iceland Cave Tower is designed to accommodate various public activities, including gathering spaces and educational facilities. This integration of community functions into the architectural design reflects a commitment to creating meaningful experiences for visitors. By incorporating spaces that encourage social interaction and learning, the tower transcends its role as merely an observational point to become a hub for cultural exchange.

The unique design approaches employed in this project emphasize sustainability and cultural representation. The use of local materials minimizes environmental impact, while the architectural language captures the essence of Iceland's history and geological phenomena. By harmonizing modern functionality with the historical context of the site, the design fosters a deeper understanding and appreciation of the landscape.

Exploring the architectural plans, sections, and designs of the Iceland Cave Tower provides further insight into its thoughtful construction and the innovative ideas that shaped its realization. This project serves as a testament to the potential of architecture to tell stories and connect people with their environment. Readers are encouraged to engage with the presentation of this project for more details on its design and functionality, enhancing their appreciation for this remarkable architectural achievement.
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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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