Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Horizontal Tower Embracing Natural Thermal Springs in Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Arkgo Chen, Allan Li
Horizontal Tower Embracing Natural Thermal Springs in Iceland's Landscape
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
The horizontal tower seamlessly integrates thermal springs into Iceland's rugged landscape, creating an immersive experience for visitors through observation and relaxation in a natural setting.
5 key facts about this project
01
Horizontal design complements Iceland's landscape geography.
02
Observation platform enhances interaction with natural vistas.
03
Natural thermal bath emphasizes restorative experiences.
04
Connection to Grjótgjá and Kvennagjá enriches site identity.
05
Walking paths promote exploration and contemplation.

“Your Horizon” resides in the picturesque landscape of VOGAGJÁ, Iceland. The design blends human experiences with the setting, focusing on a horizontal tower that connects with the natural terrain. This structure provides unique viewpoints, allowing visitors to appreciate the landscape from multiple angles. With an emphasis on healing and contemplation, the project encourages an immersive encounter with the environment.

Architectural Concept

Central to the design is the idea of horizontal integration, which distinguishes it from typical tall structures. By spreading horizontally, the tower maintains a modest profile that aligns with the land’s natural lines. This approach prompts visitors to engage with their surroundings and fosters a deeper connection to the landscape.

Engagement with Landscape

Above the site lies an observation platform that plays a key role in enhancing visitor interactions. It offers broad views of the terrain, inviting contemplation and reflection. Below this platform is a thermal bath designed to promote relaxation and healing, taking advantage of the area’s natural resources. The thoughtful arrangement of these elements reinforces how architecture can support experiences in nature.

Pathways and Accessibility

A series of walking paths create easy access throughout the site, guiding visitors as they navigate the area. These paths encourage exploration and reflection, fostering a connection between people and the landscape. By leading visitors through various scenery, the design ensures an enjoyable journey from one feature to another.

Site Elements and Facilities

Key geographical features like Grjótgjá and Kvennagjá enrich the project's context. Outdoor spaces for exhibitions and photography invite artistic engagement with the environment. Additionally, practical facilities such as a café and seating areas facilitate social interaction while remaining unobtrusive. These elements support a vibrant visitor experience without overwhelming the natural setting.

The design of the thermal bath creates a calming environment, allowing visitors to unwind while underlining the link between architecture and the landscape’s healing attributes.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Kingspan MICROHOME 2026: Building Less to Create More

`
Competition organisers

The Kingspan MICROHOME 2026 competition invites architects and designers worldwide to rethink small-scale living by creating an off-grid, modular micro dwelling under 25 m². Now in its 11th edition, the contest emphasizes sustainable, innovative, and human-centered design that demonstrates how compact living can have a big impact.

With a €100,000 prize fund, entries will be evaluated for originality, efficiency, and their response to contemporary environmental and social challenges. The competition is open to everyone, with submissions allowed individually or in teams of up to four. Registration closes on 30 September 2026, and winners will be announced on 15 December 2026.

By celebrating creativity within strict limits, MICROHOME 2026 continues to push the boundaries of compact architecture and sustainable living.

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in