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Embedded Steel Lookout Enhancing Views of Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Yasmin Cherim, Vlad andrei Barbu
Embedded Steel Lookout Enhancing Views of Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

The embedded steel lookout provides a contemplative vantage point, enhancing the connection between Hverfjall Volcano and Mývatn Lake while facilitating an immersive experience of the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Embedded steel beams provide structural support while maintaining minimal impact on the landscape.
02
The lookout offers a 360-degree panoramic view of adjacent natural features.
03
Design emphasizes the connection between the volcano and lake through spatial arrangement.
04
Sustainable building practices are highlighted through the use of durable materials.
05
The structure encourages visitor contemplation and engagement with the environment.

The project focuses on the relationship between Hverfjall Volcano and Mývatn Lake, set in the unique landscape of Iceland. It highlights how these two natural elements interact and the significance of their coexistence. The design encourages visitors to explore these features while appreciating their individual characteristics. By combining spatial organization with structural design, a thoughtful environment is created for reflection and observation.

Conceptual Framework
Unity is at the heart of the design, capturing the essence of how both the volcano and the lake contribute to a shared identity. The arrangement of two distinct volumes extends upwards, allowing for a strong visual connection between the natural features. This approach fosters contemplation, inviting observers to experience the beauty of the landscape as they engage with both elements.

Materials and Structural Integrity
Steel is the main material chosen for construction, valued for its durability and ability to withstand harsh weather. It supports sustainable practices while allowing for straightforward assembly. The use of steel meets both practical and aesthetic needs, fitting well within the vision of the project and interacting effectively with the environment.

Engineering and Design Dynamics
The construction includes two I-profile steel beams that are securely embedded into the ground. These elements provide support for the separate structures, maintaining balance between them. This engineering choice respects the surrounding landscape, allowing the architecture to coexist harmoniously with nature.

Attention to Detail
The lookout structure is designed to create an engaging experience with the geographic features of the area. By integrating form and function, the design promotes a deeper appreciation for the connection between the volcano and the lake. Visitors can enjoy panoramic views that highlight the striking topography and varying atmospheric conditions of Iceland, enhancing their understanding of this remarkable landscape.

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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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