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Elevated Stainless Steel Viewpoint over Icelandic Volcano

Author:
Tongyu Zhang
Elevated Stainless Steel Viewpoint over Icelandic Volcano
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Rising 13 meters above a volcanic landscape, a stainless steel seesaw creates an interactive viewpoint that allows visitors to engage with the geological features and the scenic Mývatn Lake in a safe and immersive manner.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rises 13 meters to provide elevated views of a volcano and Mývatn Lake.
02
Incorporates a vertical rotation mechanism for dynamic user interaction.
03
Designed with 39 safety booths for enhanced visitor security.
04
Constructed within a compact 10m x 10m footprint to minimize land use.
05
Made of stainless steel to withstand Iceland's harsh weather conditions.

The Volcano Seesaw is located near a volcano in Iceland and is designed to serve as a unique viewpoint for visitors. This structure allows people to rise up to 13 meters, providing a clear view of the volcanic landscape and Mývatn Lake. The main idea behind the design is to create an interactive experience that combines fun with an appreciation for the natural environment. It changes the typical idea of lookouts.

Structural Design
The form of the seesaw spans 50 meters in length and is aimed upward when not in use. This design invites visitors to engage with the structure and experience a sense of elevation as they move. It features a vertical rotation mechanism, allowing it to shift gently with the weight of the users. The movement is carefully controlled through a damping system, ensuring a safe experience.

Safety Features
Safety is a key part of the design. The structure includes 39 booths on one side that help protect users during operation. These booths are strategically placed to provide security while people are at play. The design focuses on ensuring enjoyment without compromising safety.

Site Integration
The seesaw fits within a compact 10m x 10m area, with only 6.5 square meters fixed to the ground. This small footprint makes it suitable for the location while allowing significant height. The structure effectively addresses environmental concerns, fitting naturally into the surrounding landscape.

Material Choice
Stainless steel is the chosen material for construction. This choice improves the durability of the seesaw in Iceland’s harsh weather conditions. It also helps keep maintenance minimal. The shiny surface of the steel reflects light, adding to the visual presence of the seesaw against the natural backdrop.

The structure presents an opportunity for visitors to engage actively with the land, offering an experience that promotes connection to the unique volcanic landscape.

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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?

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