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Curved Glass Structure Over Geological Fissure with Local Stone Integration

Authors:
Zhuojin Tang, Zhan Wang, Lu Teng
Curved Glass Structure Over Geological Fissure with Local Stone Integration

Project in-detail

A curved glass structure integrates local stone and spans a geological fissure, providing stunning views while serving as a visitor center and hot spring bathing facility.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved glass allows for unobstructed views of the geological fissure below.
02
The building integrates local stone to enhance its connection to the landscape.
03
A flat roof collects snow, which is transformed into usable water through underfloor heating.
04
Vertical textured concrete reinforces the structure's height and presence.
05
Modular walking paths adapt to various visitor scenarios throughout the site.

The design operates at the geological fissure between the European and American continents, creating an opportunity for a structure that serves multiple functions. It combines a visitor center, a sightseeing tower, and preparation areas for hot spring bathing. The design carefully connects the built environment to the natural landscape, enhancing the visitor experience by inviting interaction with the geological features surrounding it.

Multi-functional Design
The structure features a curved volume that stands apart from conventional building forms. By situating the design near the entrance of the women’s cave, it provides practical access to relaxing bathing facilities while offering visitors a chance to engage with the site. Curved glass windows on the first floor allow ample views of the landscape, while a glass floor provides a glimpse of the geological formations underneath.

Vertical Circulation
Vertical movement is a key component of the design, as stairs lead to both a roof terrace and the highest point of the tower. This upward journey offers visitors different perspectives of the Icelandic landscape. The arrangement of spaces encourages exploration and observation, making the experience much about the journey as the destination.

Material Considerations
Materials are selected to reflect the surroundings. The structure uses bare concrete alongside local stone, which helps it fit into the landscape. The vertical texture of the concrete emphasizes the building's height and gives it a strong presence against the natural backdrop.

Sustainability Features
Sustainability is integrated throughout the design. The structure connects to Iceland's geothermal energy, providing necessary heating. A flat roof collects snow, which is then transformed into water through an underfloor heating system. Modular walking paths adapt to various visitor scenarios, enhancing accessibility and engagement with the surrounding landscape.

At the top, the observation deck offers a rich view of the geological fissure, inviting visitors to truly appreciate both the design and the natural beauty that it complements.

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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
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