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Elevated Observation Space with Geometric Triangle Form

Authors:
Marie Meinecke, Laura Klaproth
Elevated Observation Space with Geometric Triangle Form
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Elevated to six meters, the geometric triangle form facilitates panoramic views while serving as a functional visitor center.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated observation deck provides expansive views of the surrounding landscape.
02
Designed around a geometric triangle form, enhancing structural integrity.
03
Visitor center incorporates essential amenities for enhanced user experience.
04
Accessed via a spiral staircase, making the ascent part of the experience.
05
Strategically located near a geographical gap, emphasizing natural context.

The Iceland Triangle Tower is situated on the European continental plate, near a notable geographical gap. Serving as a visitor facility, the tower combines functional elements with a unique design concept rooted in geometric shapes. The triangle serves as the primary influence on the structure and pathway layouts, creating a harmonious relationship with the surrounding landscape. This thoughtful integration enhances both the visitor experience and the connection to nature.

Visitor Center

The visitor center is elevated to a height of 6.00 meters and can be reached by a spiral staircase. This design allows for a gradual transition from ground level to the observation deck, making the ascent part of the experience. As visitors move upward, they are invited to take in the changing views of the landscape. The center includes essential amenities such as a self-service café, a service point, an office, storage, and toilet facilities, aimed at enhancing visitor comfort and convenience.

Observation Deck

At the top of the tower, the observation deck offers expansive views of the gap and the surrounding terrain. This vantage point plays a key role in the design, encouraging visitors to appreciate the area’s unique geological features. The design of the deck focuses on maximizing visibility, allowing users to engage deeply with the environment, fostering a sense of connection to the natural surroundings.

Architectural Details

Plans and elevations are detailed at a scale of 1:200, providing clear insights into the layout and flow of spaces within the visitor center and observation platform. This level of detail ensures that movement throughout the design is intuitive and organized. The arrangement of spaces prioritizes clarity and functionality, ensuring a smooth visitor experience as they navigate through the building.

The top of the tower showcases clean lines and geometric forms that blend into the landscape. These architectural details reinforce the connection to its natural context while maintaining a contemporary expression. This thoughtful design creates an engaging experience for all who visit.

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The Next House: USA — A Global Call to Reimagine the American Suburb

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Competition organisers

Buildner is launching The Next House: USA, a global architecture competition that challenges architects, designers, and thinkers to reimagine the American suburban home for the 21st century. For decades, the suburban house has symbolized comfort and stability, but today it often reflects excess, isolation, and environmental strain. This competition asks: how can the American home evolve to address climate urgency, economic pressures, and shifting social values?

Participants are tasked with designing a prototype home of no more than 1,500 sq ft (≈140 m²) for a household of two adults and one child. The design should be compact yet generous, adaptable, sustainable, affordable, and replicable across diverse U.S. contexts. More than a design exercise, the competition aims to spark a conversation about how homes can support healthier, smarter, and more connected communities.

The total prize fund is $20,000 USD. The final registration deadline is May 20, 2026, and winners will be announced on September 22, 2026. The Next House: USA invites architects, students, and visionaries worldwide to redefine what the American home means today—and what it should mean tomorrow.

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