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Geothermal Tower Featuring Sustainable Wood Panels Amidst Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Zoé Stone, Sean Winchester, Cassandra Tyler, Pete Heibel
Geothermal Tower Featuring Sustainable Wood Panels Amidst Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Embodying the essence of Iceland's natural landscape, the geothermal tower integrates sustainable wood panels with elevated pathways to create a dynamic space for education and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
The geothermal tower incorporates localized geothermal heating, optimizing energy efficiency for its use.
02
Cross-laminated timber panels create a lightweight yet durable structure that enhances sustainability and aesthetics.
03
Charred wooden shingles provide both a unique visual texture and added protection against the elements.
04
Elevated pathways minimize ecological impact while facilitating visitor interaction with the surrounding landscape.
05
The design mimics natural forms, reflecting Iceland's historic relationship with forestry and environmental restoration.
The "Forest" project represents a thoughtful architectural endeavor situated in the geological and environmental context of Iceland. This architectural design is entrenched in the historical narrative of the region, focusing on the restoration of its native forestry and promoting ecological awareness. The project serves multiple functions, including providing educational opportunities and fostering community interaction, while seamlessly integrating with the surrounding natural landscape.

The architectural design emphasizes sustainability and ecological responsibility, manifesting a commitment to both environmental consciousness and community engagement. Built around a central theme of recovering lost forest landscapes, the design captures the spirit of Iceland's natural beauty while inviting visitors to appreciate and learn about the local ecosystem. The project aims to recreate the sense of shelter and connection to nature that ancient forests once provided to the inhabitants of Iceland.

Central to the design is the Welcome Center, which acts as the entry point for visitors. This structure features an intuitive layout with a café and communal areas where people can gather, share stories, and discuss ecological strategies. The incorporation of geothermal heating not only provides comfort but also aligns with the principles of environmental sustainability. This space highlights the role of architecture in enhancing social interaction while remaining mindful of its environmental footprint.

A distinctive feature of the project is the network of pathways that meander through the landscape, encouraging exploration and interaction with the natural surroundings. These pathways are designed to minimize disturbance to the land, utilizing elevated walkways that ensure visitors can traverse the area without impacting the delicate ecosystem. Along these routes, various installations educate users about local ecology and history, connecting them to the region's past and current environmental challenges.

The Tower stands as a prominent feature of the project, representing both a symbolic and physical connection to the area's historic relationship with forestation. It mimics the form of ancient trees and offers panoramic views of the breathtaking Icelandic landscape, enhancing the visitor experience. This structure serves as a hub for education, providing spaces for reflection and learning while showcasing the architectural integrity of the design.

The careful selection of materials is integral to the overall design. Sustainable wood, robust concrete, transparent glass, and resilient steel are employed to create structures that harmonize with the environment. The use of local materials not only reduces the project's carbon footprint but also reinforces a sense of belonging and connection to the site. Each material contributes to an architectural language that enhances the narrative of environmental restoration and thoughtful design.

Unique design approaches are evident throughout the project, particularly in how it embraces the nuances of the landscape. The structures have been designed to mimic natural forms, creating a dialogue between built and unbuilt environments. This methodological choice encourages a sense of unity with nature, challenging conventional architectural boundaries while fostering an appreciation for the region's ecological diversity.

The "Forest" project stands as an exploration of how architecture can embody the ideals of sustainability and community while addressing pivotal environmental concerns. By embracing the duality of functionality and artistry, the design effectively promotes an ongoing dialogue between the built environment and the natural world around it. To gain a deeper insight into the nuances of this project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs that further elucidate the thoughtful ideas that underpin this architectural endeavor.
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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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