Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Panoramic Shelter Crafted in Steel and Concrete Within Iceland's Unique Landscape

Authors:
Francesco Iurato, Giuditta Contini, Erica Bugli
Panoramic Shelter Crafted in Steel and Concrete Within Iceland's Unique Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed with a bright orange facade of steel and concrete, the shelter tower enhances visitor experience while offering panoramic views of the spectacular Grjótagjá cave system and serves as a functional hub for tourists exploring Iceland's natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Built as a six-floor tower, offering extensive views of surrounding caves.
02
Utilizes a closed-loop system by refurbishing existing emergency shelters.
03
Features generous glass windows for natural light and visual connection to nature.
04
Colorful exterior in bright orange enhances visibility against rugged terrain.
05
Incorporates various functional modules for restrooms and lockers for visitors.

The Skjól Shelter Tower serves as a practical solution for the growing number of visitors exploring the Grjótagjá cave system in Iceland. Positioned within a stunning natural landscape, the tower provides essential amenities while encouraging a connection to the surrounding environment. Its design revolves around a six-story structure featuring a panoramic terrace at the top, where visitors can enjoy expansive views of the caves and rugged terrain.

Functional Spaces

At the base of the tower, a visitor center acts as a gathering point for tourists, offering information and a place to rest during their excursions. Large glass windows invite natural light and create a sense of openness, allowing occupants to feel part of the landscape, even when indoors. This careful attention to openness and visibility helps to foster a welcoming atmosphere for all who visit.

Focus on Sustainability

The design emphasizes sustainability through the use of a closed-loop system that refurbishes existing emergency shelters. By reusing materials, the project reduces waste and demonstrates a commitment to environmental responsibility. Additionally, the tower includes various shelter modules that provide necessary facilities, such as restrooms and lockers, enhancing convenience for visitors while ensuring that each space is functional and accessible.

Materials and Structure

In terms of construction, the Skjól Shelter Tower features a strong steel framework that supports the entire structure. Concrete is utilized in the base walls and floors to provide stability and durability. Insulation panels in the roof contribute to energy efficiency, helping the structure withstand the changing Icelandic weather without compromising comfort for visitors.

The bright orange color of the tower ensures it stands out against the natural surroundings, making it easy to spot from a distance. At night, an advanced lighting system highlights its form, making the structure visible and inviting against the dark sky. Such design details reflect a commitment to not only creating a functional space but also offering an engaging experience in the remarkable landscape of Grjótagjá.

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