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Glass Facades and Tectonic References in a Thermal Spring Visitor Center

Authors:
Kyung Tae Jung, Juha Lee
Glass Facades and Tectonic References in a Thermal Spring Visitor Center
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With large glass facades reflecting the surrounding landscape and a prominent spire symbolizing geological features, the visitor center enhances the thermal spring experience while inviting engagement with Iceland's unique natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large glass facades provide uninterrupted views of the thermal spring landscape.
02
A spire design signifies the geological features of the area.
03
The walking path module encourages exploration while ensuring privacy.
04
Distinct zones are organized around individual user experiences and needs.
05
Strategic site integration respects and enhances the natural topography.

The Iceland Cave Tower serves as a visitor center located within a thermal spring cave in Iceland. Its main function is to enhance the experience of visitors while they explore the geothermal features of the area. The design connects with the natural landscape, promoting harmony between built spaces and the surrounding environment.

Architectural Form and Function

The design establishes a clear connection between the visitor center and the thermal spring caves, featuring the "WALKING PATH MODULE." This module acts both as a pathway and guide, encouraging visitors to explore different areas. Key spaces, such as the Women Cave, Men Cave, and Pinnacle Observation Platform, are arranged to provide easy access and foster engagement with the natural landscape.



Site Integration and Spatial Organization

The project respects the natural topography and geology of the location, emphasizing the concept of site integration. Each space, including the Bath Cave and Dressing Area, is carefully positioned to ensure user comfort and privacy. This layout supports effortless navigation through the caves, allowing visitors to appreciate the remarkable geological context of Iceland.



Transparency and Immersive Experience

Large glass panels are used throughout the design, ensuring views that link the interior with the stunning exterior surroundings. This use of glass creates an immersive atmosphere for visitors, helping them feel connected to nature. The Glass Cafe, located strategically within the center, enhances this relationship by providing visual access to the landscape outside.



Landmark Design Element

A distinctive feature of the design is the spire, which serves as a visible marker for the visitor center. This element is not merely for decoration; it represents the unique geological features of the region. The relationship between the spire and the natural setting gives visitors a continual reminder of the beauty they are experiencing.

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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

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