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Curved Structure of Reinforced Concrete and Wood Offering Scenic Views

Authors:
Takahiro Moriya, Yuta Watanabe
Curved Structure of Reinforced Concrete and Wood Offering Scenic Views

Project in-detail

A curved tower constructed from reinforced concrete and wood rises 30 meters, providing visitors with expansive views while serving as a multifunctional hub for exploration in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curved surfaces enable distinct viewpoints from various angles.
02
Height reaches 30 meters, enhancing visibility within the landscape.
03
Interior features a compact entrance leading to spacious areas.
04
Geothermal heating system reduces overall energy consumption.
05
Observation platform provides wide-ranging views of natural surroundings.

The Iceland Cave Tower is located in a remarkable setting marked by the natural beauty of the Icelandic landscape. It is close to notable geographical features like the Grjotagja caves and Hverfjall volcano. The building is designed for visitors, combining practical spaces with the chance to explore its surroundings. The overall design embraces curves that respond to the landscape and create different views from various angles.

Structure and Form
The tower features two curved surfaces and reaches about 30 meters in height. These curves shape its identity, allowing it to stand out against the rugged terrain. The design invites engagement with the natural environment. As people move around the building, they experience different appearances of the structure, creating a connection with the landscape.

Interior Organization
Inside, the tower starts with a compact entrance that leads to larger areas meant for visitors. The layout includes a waiting area, café, offices, and restrooms. These spaces are arranged to provide comfort and support various activities. An observation platform gives visitors a place to enjoy wide views of the area, enhancing their connection to the surroundings.

Materiality and Sustainability
The building’s lower structure is made of reinforced concrete. For the upper sections, a combination of wood and steel is used. This choice gives strength to the structure while fitting with the overall design. The project incorporates sustainability by using geothermal heat from nearby hot springs for heating, helping to minimize energy use.

Environmental Context
The Iceland Cave Tower carefully considers its environment, integrating both form and function. It creates an inviting space for visitors and encourages them to explore the natural beauty around them. Windows and observation areas are thoughtfully placed, allowing for interaction with the landscape. The result is an engaging experience that draws visitors into the unique qualities of the Icelandic setting.

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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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