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Hyperboloid Structure with Dark Red Steel and Natural Light Integration

Author:
Jan Štorm
Hyperboloid Structure with Dark Red Steel and Natural Light Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed from dark red steel and highlighted by a rotating hyperboloid that maximizes natural light, the structure serves as a visitor center, enhancing the experience of the surrounding Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a rotating hyperboloid to enhance natural daylight.
02
The exterior features a matte dark red finish that mimics volcanic rock.
03
The spiral ramp ensures accessibility with a maximum slope of 8%.
04
Internal spaces are lined with sheet metal for visual continuity.
05
Equipped with a water reservoir to support sustainable energy use.

The VOLCANO - Iceland Cave Tower is set in the dramatic landscapes of Iceland and draws inspiration from the shapes of volcanic formations. Resembling a lava dome, the design serves multiple functions for visitors while creating a unique space that blends with the surrounding environment. The overall concept emphasizes connectivity to nature while providing essential amenities for those who come to explore.

Structural Composition
The tower features three main components, each with a specific role. The spiral ramp allows for easy access to the top of the structure, encouraging visitors to engage with both the architecture and the natural surroundings. The cone structure serves as the visitor center, which includes a café, storage areas, an office, and an accessible toilet. This combination creates a shared space for social interaction and rest.

Environmental Sustainability
Central to the tower's design is the rotating hyperboloid, which functions as a reservoir for water and an electricity source while allowing natural daylight to illuminate the interiors. This feature highlights a commitment to sustainable practices by efficiently using natural resources, blending energy needs with architectural form.

Accessibility Features
Accessibility is an important aspect of the design. The spiral ramp is designed for ease of movement, with a maximum slope of 8%. It measures 1800 mm in width, making it suitable for individuals with reduced mobility. Additionally, safety features such as railings at a height of 900 mm enhance the usability of the tower for all visitors.

Material and Aesthetic
The materials used in the VOLCANO tower contribute to its stability and visual consistency. The supporting structure is made from steel, finished in a matte dark red color that reflects the hues of the volcanic landscape. Reinforced concrete piles form a stable foundation, while sheet metal lines the interior spaces, ensuring a cohesive appearance throughout.

The design incorporates transparent elements, like plexiglass panels, to allow natural light to fill the interior space. This creates bright, inviting areas while providing visitors with views of the stunning Icelandic scenery, deepening the connection between the structure and its environment.

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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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