The Cracked Cave Tower is located overlooking Iceland's Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a place known for its active geology and shifting landforms. Serving as a visitor center and exhibition space, it emphasizes the connection between the building and the landscape. The design is rooted in the idea of fragmentation, featuring a cubic form that has been intentionally broken and rearranged, reflecting the natural forces that shape the area.

Design Concept

The concept centers around fracturing a simple cube into two interlocking volumes. This split not only mirrors geological movement but also creates a responsive relationship between the two segments. By slicing through the cube diagonally, the design embodies the earth's shifts and brings a dynamic quality to the structure, resulting in a coherent yet engaging form.

The White Cave and The Black Tower

At the heart of the design are two key spaces: The White Cave and The Black Tower. The White Cave serves as a visitor center and incorporates the natural bedrock into its floor design. This approach enhances the connection to the site and invites visitors to engage with the earth beneath them. The space encourages both reflection and interaction, creating a calm environment that aligns with the surrounding landscape.

On the other hand, The Black Tower provides a different experience. Visitors ascend through a darkened staircase, leading to a platform that reveals expansive views of the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. This vertical movement facilitates engagement with the landscape, allowing people to appreciate the dramatic features of the terrain while reinforcing the relationship between nature and architecture.

Sustainability and Materiality

Sustainability plays a crucial role in the design of the Cracked Cave Tower. Strategies for environmental responsibility include careful positioning to maximize sunlight and a walking path designed to minimize ecological impact as it connects the parking area to the entrance. Materials used in the construction feature locally sourced birch wood planks for cladding, finished with a tarred surface. This selection supports local resources while maintaining a consistent visual appearance throughout the project.

The integration of the Cracked Cave Tower with its surroundings culminates in thoughtful design details. Each element interacts meaningfully with the rugged Icelandic landscape, creating a space that exists in harmony with its environment.