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Mirrored Façade and Tectonic Elements in a Cultural Tower

Authors:
Giacomo Chiarani, Elena Vitanza
Mirrored Façade and Tectonic Elements in a Cultural Tower
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The mirrored façade reflects the surrounding landscape while a tectonic-inspired crack serves as the entrance, guiding visitors through a cultural tower that celebrates Iceland's geological heritage and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored façade minimizes visual impact and reflects the surrounding landscape.
02
Central crack entrance symbolizes the tectonic activity of the region.
03
Floating lanterns illuminate the path and enhance the visitor experience.
04
Piezoelectric sensors generate energy from wind movement on the west elevation.
05
Recycled galvanized steel ensures durability against Iceland's harsh weather conditions.

The design features a tower located in Iceland, conceived as an open-air museum that embodies the four elemental forces: earth, fire, water, and air. It serves a dual purpose as an observation point and a cultural center, allowing visitors to connect with the unique landscape of Iceland. The architecture emphasizes a journey from solid ground to the sky, creating an experience where visitors can appreciate both the natural and cultural narratives of the site.

Entrance Experience

The entrance is marked by a significant crack that symbolizes tectonic activity, inviting visitors to engage with the geological aspects of the location. This design feature enhances the sense of entry, providing a transformative experience. Visible behind the façade are illuminated names, EURASIA and NORTH-AMERICA, which inform visitors about the continental divide and stimulate interest in the geological history surrounding them.

Façade and Reflection

The tower's front façade consists of mirrors that create a visual connection with the surrounding landscape. This reflective quality allows the structure to blend in with its environment, reducing its visual presence. As visitors move around the tower, each change in perspective reveals different aspects of the scenery, encouraging engagement with the natural beauty of the area.

Dynamic Engagement

The tower's design includes spaces that support various cultural activities, such as exhibitions and performances. The layout allows for platforms and areas where musicians can perform, fostering a sense of community and participation. This multi-use characteristic emphasizes the importance of interaction and exploration, making each visit a dynamic experience.

Sustainability and Materiality

Recycled galvanized steel is the central material used in the structure, chosen for its strength and ability to withstand Iceland's harsh weather conditions. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability while minimizing environmental impact. The design incorporates bracing systems that support the structure against high winds without compromising its appearance.

The west elevation features square hollow sections that mimic the movement of wind. Each section contains piezoelectric film sensors that capture energy from wind movement. This detailed approach not only highlights innovative thinking about sustainability but also emphasizes the connection between the building and its environment. Visitors experience a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, providing a deeper understanding of Iceland's unique geology.

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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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