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Exploring Caves Through Crafted Pathways and Elevated Viewing Points

Author:
Hamid Khalili
Exploring Caves Through Crafted Pathways and Elevated Viewing Points

Project in-detail

A carefully crafted pathway leads visitors through an engaging experience that culminates in elevated viewpoints, connecting them to the geological wonder of the Karlagja and Kvennagja caves while providing essential visitor amenities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Pathways designed to mimic natural cave formations enhance visitor exploration.
02
An observation tower provides panoramic views of the surrounding geological landscape.
03
Proximity to cave entrances encourages recreational activities, such as swimming.
04
The information center aids in visitor orientation and experience management.
05
Floating corridors direct foot traffic, minimizing environmental impact.

The design titled "View Through Karlagja Cave Entrances to the Tower" focuses on connecting visitors to the unique landscape of the Karlagja and Kvennagja caves. The project aims to create an engaging experience that harmonizes human activity with the natural environment. Through thoughtful planning, it fosters exploration and reflection while highlighting the site's geological features.

Pathway and Entry Experience

The approach from the parking area to the complex is intentional, guiding visitors through a constructed pathway that heightens anticipation. This route leads to the collection space in a way that encourages curiosity about the caves and their grandeur. As visitors proceed along the ramp, they transition into a world of discovery, where natural elements and the architecture invite exploration.

Functional Spaces

Inside the complex, a careful arrangement of essential spaces supports the visitor experience. An information center provides guidance, while a waiting area and a café create opportunities for relaxation and social interaction. The café not only serves refreshments but also allows time for visitors to pause and gather their thoughts before continuing. These functional areas enhance comfort and make the experience more enjoyable.

Observation Tower

A key element is the observation tower, which offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape. This feature acts as a focal point, inviting visitors to engage with the geological context of the area. Climbing the stairs rewards them with a broader understanding of the topography, creating a moment of connection between the architecture and nature. The experience of reaching the top highlights the richness of the site.

Circulation and Amenities

The design prioritizes clear circulation paths that help visitors navigate without confusion. This thoughtful layout enhances accessibility and allows for easy movement between different areas. Also, the placement of toilets and showers near the entrances of the caves emphasizes visitor convenience, encouraging activities such as swimming. This integration of services promotes a balanced experience that combines leisure with exploration.

The careful planning of pathways, shared spaces, and viewing points creates an immersive experience that encourages visitors to interact with both the architecture and the surrounding landscape. Each element contributes to a well-rounded understanding of the site’s unique geological significance, inviting a deeper appreciation of its natural beauty.

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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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