Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Laminated Wood Crossings Above Geological Fissures in Iceland's Natural Landscape

Authors:
Joseph Welker, James Carpenter
Laminated Wood Crossings Above Geological Fissures in Iceland's Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

Laminated wood beams span geological fissures, offering elevated views of Iceland's volcanic landscape while guiding visitors through a thoughtfully designed experience of nature and conservation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Laminated wood crossing beams allow access to the North American tectonic boundary.
02
Engraved time stamps educate visitors about geological movements.
03
Cave entry experiences remain natural, preserving the site's integrity.
04
Precast concrete seating elements outline functional areas without intruding.
05
Lighting enhances the interaction between natural and built environments.

The design of “Iceland Crossing Time” is situated in Grjotagja, Iceland, a region known for its geothermal pools and geological features. The overall concept focuses on improving visitor experiences while safeguarding the sensitive environment. The layout harmonizes with the site's natural charm, allowing for a thoughtful exploration of the volcanic landscape.

Access and Elevation
Three laminated wood crossing beams provide essential access to the boundary of the North American continent. These beams serve as both passageways and vantage points. Visitors gain elevated views of the fissure and its surroundings, prompting moments of introspection as they take in the expansive landscape.

Spatial Experience
The layout is organized as a journey, inviting visitors to discover multiple destinations within the site. This approach encourages deeper engagement with the geological elements that make Grjotagja unique. Careful navigation through the space allows individuals to appreciate the fragile beauty of the landscape while minimizing environmental impact.

Materials and Construction
Two materials are prominently used: laminated wood for the crossing beams and precast concrete for seating elements in the parking area. The choice of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability, ensuring that structures blend with the natural environment. The wooden crossings are designed to resonate with the landscape, while the concrete elements clearly define functional areas without overwhelming the scenery.

Experience of the Site
Walking along the beams creates an experience that highlights geological processes at work. Visitors are reminded of the tectonic movements that shaped the region. Engraved time stamps on hardscaping help educate the public about the geological history of Iceland. Thoughtful lighting designs enhance the interaction between natural and built elements during evening visits, adding a subtle layer to the overall experience.

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

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy