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Corroded Metal Structure Embracing Tectonic Forces and Geothermal Access

Authors:
Andrea Piña, Yael González
Corroded Metal Structure Embracing Tectonic Forces and Geothermal Access

Project in-detail

A skeletal metal structure designed to naturally corrode interacts with tectonic movements and geothermal access, providing a unique visitor experience centered around exploration and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Skeletal design allows for natural corrosion, enhancing environmental interaction.
02
Underground corridors connect to tectonic plates and nearby hot springs.
03
Construction incorporates rock excavated from the site for sustainability.
04
Building adapts to the local climate, continuously reshaping its presence.
05
Emphasis on visitor engagement through thoughtful spatial organization.

The Iceland Cave Tower project integrates closely with its natural surroundings in a rugged Icelandic landscape. Its design incorporates a skeletal metal structure that allows the building to interact with the local climate. The choice of materials is deliberate, with the aim of enabling corrosion over time, which contributes to a dynamic relationship between the tower and its environment.

Structural Approach

The architectural design features an incomplete skeletal structure that invites exploration. This design choice encourages visitors to engage with the space, as the open form allows for personal interpretation and interaction. The evolving character of the building is set against the backdrop of changing weather and landscapes, reinforcing its connection to the site.

Subterranean Elements

A notable aspect of the design is the underground component, which connects to the tectonic plate and provides access to nearby hot springs. This connection supports a well-organized layout, enhancing movement and exploration within the space. Strategic pathways guide visitors through the building, encouraging them to engage with the geothermal features that characterize the area.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability plays a key role in the project’s design. The walls and pavements are made from rock sourced during the excavation process, a choice that highlights a commitment to minimizing the carbon footprint. By using local materials, the project fosters a deeper connection to the geological features of the region and emphasizes an environmentally responsible approach to building.

The overall design culminates in an external façade that will naturally weather and adapt over time. This characteristic allows the tower to blend into the landscape, continuously reshaping its presence in the dynamic Icelandic environment.

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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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