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Exploring Celestial Views With Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Observation Towers

Authors:
Giovanni luca Ferreri, Angelo Pellegrino, Daniele Colombelli, Gabriele Mundula
Exploring Celestial Views With Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Observation Towers

Project in-detail

Charred wood shingles envelop a glass observation tower that rises majestically to offer sweeping views of Iceland's breathtaking landscape, inviting visitors to engage with the region's geological history and natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for improved durability and weather resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Includes interactive augmented reality elements to educate visitors about geological history.
05
Strategically positioned observation decks allow for year-round celestial event viewing.
The Vegvisir architectural project represents a thoughtful integration of contemporary design and the natural landscape of Iceland. This project, named after the Icelandic symbol for navigation, aims to create a space where visitors can experience and interact with the breathtaking geological features of the region. The primary function of the Vegvisir project is to serve as an observation platform and educational tool that allows individuals to engage deeply with their surroundings while fostering a sense of connection to Iceland's rich cultural narrative.

The key design elements of the Vegvisir project include elevated observation platforms that encourage exploration and offer panoramic views of significant natural landmarks. These platforms are carefully positioned to highlight the unique geological formations prevalent in the region, creating an opportunity for visitors to appreciate the majesty of the landscape. Central to the design is a striking tower, known as ‘The Guide,’ which features a double spiral staircase leading to several observation decks. This tower acts as a focal point for the project, drawing people upward and inviting them to experience both the terrestrial and celestial wonders above.

The design emphasizes transparency and light, utilizing glass and steel in its construction. The use of glass facilitates unobstructed views, while the steel framework provides structural integrity, ensuring the safety of visitors navigating the paths. Wood is also incorporated, particularly for the pathways, allowing for a more tactile connection with the environment and respecting local materials and traditions. This diversity in materials is not only functional but also enhances the overall aesthetic, blending the architectural features with the exquisite surroundings.

A unique aspect of the Vegvisir project is its use of digital integration through augmented reality. As visitors explore the observation points, they will have access to real-time information about the geological history and environmental significance of the area. This underscores the project’s educational approach, revealing how architecture can serve as a bridge to understanding the natural world. Additionally, the careful design of the pathways encourages an immersive experience, guiding visitors through thoughtfully curated spaces that offer moments of reflection amidst the grandiosity of the Icelandic landscape.

The Vegvisir project’s design communicates a duality of experience—one that is both tactile and visual. Visitors are not merely observers; they are participants in a narrative that honors the land and its historical significance. The navigation theme permeates through the architectural ideas, as pathways and observation points invite attendees to explore and engage with the environment actively. The structure promotes a sense of journey, reminiscent of the act of navigating through the uncertainties of the natural world.

As you delve into the specifics of the Vegvisir project, consider examining the architectural plans and sections that illustrate how each element contributes to the overall experience. Explore the intricate architectural designs that detail the relationship between the man-made structures and the untouched wilderness, as well as the innovative architectural ideas that inform the project’s sustainable practices. This thoughtful blend of architecture, education, and cultural reverence encapsulates what the Vegvisir project aims to convey, inviting ongoing exploration and discovery for all who visit.
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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
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