Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Walkway Crafted From Local Stone and Concrete Within Tectonic Rift Landscape

Author:
Shiori Chida
Curvilinear Walkway Crafted From Local Stone and Concrete Within Tectonic Rift Landscape

Project in-detail

Positioned along the tectonic fissure of Iceland, a curvilinear walkway crafted from local stone and concrete invites exploration of the geological landscape while enhancing visitor engagement through panoramic observation points.
5 key facts about this project
01
Located at the intersection of two tectonic plates, enhancing geological engagement.
02
Curvilinear design mimics the natural contours of the landscape for visual continuity.
03
Constructed using local stone to minimize environmental impact and promote sustainability.
04
Observation platforms offer strategically positioned views of significant geological features.
05
Integration of educational facilities to provide context about the site's geological history.
The architectural project, named "Gji," is situated in Iceland at the tectonic fissure where the North American and Eurasian plates diverge. This location is marked by distinct geological features, serving as an attraction for both tourists and geology enthusiasts. The walkway project emphasizes minimal environmental disruption while providing visitors with the opportunity to engage with the site's unique topography. The design aims for a cohesive interaction between the built environment and natural landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the primary features of the Gji walkway is its dynamic form, which follows the natural contours of the rift. This approach promotes an organic engagement with the landscape, allowing visitors to experience it from various perspectives. The use of curved paths, designed to mimic the flowing shapes found in nature, enhances the overall visitor experience and maintains the visual continuity with the surrounding environment.

The materials selected for this project further highlight its unique characteristics. The combination of durable concrete and local stone not only ensures structural integrity but also fosters a direct physical connection to the site’s geological history. This careful materialization creates a seamless dialogue between the architectural and natural elements, reinforcing the project’s intention to minimize ecological impact while encouraging exploration and appreciation of the area's geological significance.

Functional Elements and Environment Integration

The Gji walkway encompasses multiple functional components that enhance visitor engagement. Key features include observation platforms, which are strategically placed to provide elevated views over significant geological formations and surrounding landscapes. These platforms encourage visitors to pause and reflect upon the natural phenomena at play.

The project also includes informative spaces designed to educate visitors about the geological processes involved in the creation of the rift. This integration of educational facilities within the walkway enhances the overall visitor experience by providing context to the unique geological characteristics of the area.

The project prioritizes sustainability, utilizing local materials to minimize transportation impacts and protect fragile ecosystems. This focus on environmental responsibility is crucial in a location where natural beauty and geological significance are paramount.

For a comprehensive understanding of the Gji walkway project, including architectural plans, sections, and design details, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Reviewing these elements will provide deeper insights into the architectural decisions and innovative ideas that shape this distinctive undertaking.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 16,979 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy