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Curvilinear Lookout with Steel and Bronze Accents Overlooking Hverfjall

Authors:
Luke Lin, Hanzhe Zhang, Yuxi Liu, Yuyang Qiu
Curvilinear Lookout with Steel and Bronze Accents Overlooking Hverfjall

Project in-detail

Curvilinear forms and a combination of steel and bronze create a striking lookout point that offers visitors panoramic views of Hverfjall, serving as a restful station along the hiking trail.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design enhances visual connection with the surrounding landscape.
02
Multiple viewing levels encourage diverse perspectives for visitors.
03
A combination of steel and bronze reflects the volcanic terrain's characteristics.
04
Laminated glass allows natural light while framing stunning outdoor views.
05
Strategically placed loops widen sightlines, creating expansive vistas.

TWINCLES serves as a resting place for visitors near the Hverfjall volcano in Iceland. It combines functionality and experience, allowing hikers to take a break and enjoy the natural scenery. The design concept emphasizes a connection between the built structure and the landscape, featuring fluid forms that respond to the contours of the terrain.

Materiality

The project uses materials that reflect the rugged nature of the volcanic landscape. Steel and bronze contribute strength and durability, symbolizing the hard features of the area. Laminated glass is included to allow light to filter into the space, creating transparency and framing views of the landscape outside. This choice of materials supports the design's intention to enhance the visitor experience while ensuring longevity.

Spatial Organization

Design elements encourage various perspectives, inviting visitors to engage with sweeping views of Hverfjall. Different heights within the structure promote varied experiences, encouraging exploration. This arrangement allows users to connect with the environment in distinct ways and encourages a deeper appreciation of the scenic settings.

Design Features

Significant design aspects include loops that promote visual engagement with the surroundings and broaden viewing areas for expansive sightlines. Multiple levels enhance the ability to observe and rest, making the space versatile for different needs. A carefully planned lighting system improves the atmosphere, making the structure welcoming throughout the day.

Curvilinear shapes dominate the design, blending naturally with the landscape. This thoughtful integration creates an inviting space for visitors to reflect and appreciate the surrounding beauty. The design balances comfort with a sense of place, ensuring that this resting point enriches the hiking experience while respecting the tranquil 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

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