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Glass-Capped Observation Point Overlooking Subterranean Caves

Authors:
Santiago Márquez, Brayan Molina
Glass-Capped Observation Point Overlooking Subterranean Caves

Project in-detail

A glass-capped observation point provides a vantage over subterranean caves, inviting visitors to explore the interplay between the mountainous landscape and the hidden geological features below while serving as a public engagement hub.
5 key facts about this project
01
A glass observation point mimics the peaks of nearby mountains.
02
The tower is designed to create a dialogue between above-ground and subterranean environments.
03
A natural slope leads visitors from the landscape into the cave entrance.
04
Functional spaces include offices and public restrooms, enhancing usability.
05
The design emphasizes a double-height space for immersive viewing experiences.

The Skadi Tower is established in a landscape marked by seasonal changes and rugged mountains. It functions as both an observation point and a means to explore the caves beneath. The design aims to create a relationship between the structure and the surrounding nature, encouraging visitors to discover both the external views and the hidden depths of the landscape.

Spatial Experience

Inside the tower, a double-height space offers a sense of openness. Large areas allow for views of the landscape while also providing glimpses of the levels above. As visitors move up through the tower, the changing perspectives enhance their connection with both the open sky outside and the cave system below.



Transitional Elements

As one approaches the tower, a gentle slope leads to the entrance of the cave. This gradual incline serves as a natural pathway. It invites users to experience the rocky terrain and its features before entering the underground space. This thoughtful design helps to bridge the outside environment with the mysterious qualities of the caves beneath.



Functional Organization

The tower is organized to support various activities across different levels. The lower section is a hub of movement, including entrances to the caves, restrooms, and office space. This bustling area contrasts with the quieter, more reflective upper levels. This separation exemplifies an understanding of diverse user needs, balancing busy with calm.



Design Detail

At the top, the observation point features a glass cap that allows clear views of the surrounding mountains. This detail enhances visibility and strengthens the connection between the tower and its environment. The openness in this area invites visitors to appreciate the landscape while grounded within the structure itself, merging the experience of indoors and outdoors.

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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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