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Modular Structure With Polycarbonate Facade Overlooking Geological Fault

Authors:
Alaan Yosyf, Hanaa Mohammad
Modular Structure With Polycarbonate Facade Overlooking Geological Fault

Project in-detail

Set against a geological fault, the modular structure employs a polycarbonate facade to create a visually striking connection between the tower and hotel while enhancing the visitor experience of the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Modular construction allows for easy future modifications and disassembly.
02
Bridges are designed as cantilevers to accommodate fault movement.
03
Polycarbonate facade enhances transparency and integration with nature.
04
Visitor access points provide unobstructed views of the geological landscape.
05
The design emphasizes minimal environmental impact with compact foundations.

The Iceland Cave Tower project is an architectural endeavor set within a dramatic geological fault. The location shapes the design, which emphasizes a modular approach that aims to reduce environmental impact. It features a tower positioned on the European side of the fault and a hotel located on the American side. This configuration serves visitors who wish to take in the natural beauty of the area.

Structural Framework
The design utilizes the Brio Modular Scaffolding System, known for its lightweight properties. This system enables quick assembly while allowing parts of the project to be built separately. It provides flexibility for future modifications, adapting to the changing needs of the occupants. The foundation design is mindful of the fault, ensuring minimal disruption to the surrounding environment.

Visitor Experience
A significant element of the design is the connection between the tower and hotel through two cantilevered bridges. These bridges are thoughtfully engineered to accommodate the fault’s dynamic conditions. They use bridging beams and passage beams to ensure stability. Visitors can walk along these bridges for expansive views of the geological landscape, enhancing their interaction with the natural surroundings.

Materiality and Sustainability
Polycarbonate is used for the external facade, chosen for its clarity and environmental advantages. This material works well with the site, providing functionality while maintaining a connection to nature. Sustainability is a key consideration, with the modular design allowing for future disassembly and reuse. This approach aims to reduce waste and promote responsible construction practices.

Strategic Lighting
The design features integrated LED lighting along the facade. This lighting serves both practical and decorative purposes. It highlights the building's form and illuminates pathways for visitors. The lighting choices create a welcoming atmosphere, allowing people to explore the area while maintaining focus on the surrounding natural landscape. The thoughtful design encourages engagement with the site’s unique geological features.

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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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