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Onyx Façade and Viewing Platforms Over Tectonic Fissure

Authors:
Hyunsik Mun, Jinwoo Kim
Onyx Façade and Viewing Platforms Over Tectonic Fissure

Project in-detail

An onyx-clad observation structure spans a tectonic fissure in Iceland, offering visitors panoramic views while engaging with the geological landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Onyx stone cladding creates a translucent façade that interacts with natural light.
02
Multiple viewing platforms cater to varying sightlines across the landscape.
03
The structure is designed to span the fissure between two tectonic plates.
04
Six unique observation objects face significant landmarks to enhance visitor experience.
05
Walking paths utilize three modular sizes to protect the natural terrain.

The project is located at the intersection of the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates in Iceland, where the landscape reveals an intriguing geological phenomenon. It serves as an observation structure that allows visitors to walk across a fissure marking the boundary of these two plates. By focusing on horizontal movement, the design promotes an experience that connects people to the unique geological characteristics of the area while harmonizing with the natural environment.

Bridge Concept

A shift is made from traditional vertical observation towers to a bridge-like structure. This design allows for a more direct interaction with the setting as visitors can traverse the fissure itself. The walking path complementing this bridge provides a means of exploration. It not only helps visitors move from one point to another but also encourages them to take in the surrounding views.

Viewing Platforms

Along the structure, several viewing platforms appear, each at different heights to enhance the experience. These platforms are designed to facilitate engagement with the landscape, focusing attention on significant features such as Hverfjall Volcano and Lake Mývatn. The staggered arrangement connects the platforms through bridge tracks. This staggered design invites a sense of discovery, leading visitors through the varied terrain.

Site Integration

In addition to the observation points, six distinct objects are integrated into the design, positioned to offer views of renowned attractions nearby. These objects serve as observation areas, enhancing how visitors experience the site. Walking path modules are proposed to protect the landscape. These path modules come in three sizes—300mm, 600mm, and 1200mm—allowing for thoughtful placement that respects the natural features of the area.

Façade Treatment

The façade employs a stone cladding system that uses thin onyx slabs placed between sheets of glass. This material choice allows light to interact with the building in interesting ways. During the day, the façade appears light and airy, blending with the environment. At night, the structure takes on a different character, lighting up like a lantern, guiding visitors as they explore the area.

The bridge-like structure offers a connection to its geological surroundings, presenting a practical space for observation and reflection.

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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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