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Panoramic Views Through Transparent Solar Panels in a Cave-Inspired Observation Tower

Authors:
Victoria Malikhova, Polina Ilina
Panoramic Views Through Transparent Solar Panels in a Cave-Inspired Observation Tower

Project in-detail

With a transparent solar panel façade and an observation tower that offers panoramic views of the surrounding geological formations, the structure serves as a visitor center and recreational hub at the heart of a tectonic fault landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower is designed to integrate seamlessly with the surrounding geological features.
02
A gallery in the visitor center highlights the region's geological history and significance.
03
Transparent solar panels allow natural light while generating renewable energy for the building.
04
The green roof effectively filters rainwater, contributing to the site's sustainability.
05
Two bridges connect different sections, enhancing accessibility to geological formations.

The Iceland Cave Tower project is located near a tectonic fault, providing a unique opportunity to connect visitors with the geological landscape. Its design promotes exploration and interaction with the area while fulfilling various functions such as observation, education, and recreation. The overall aim is to integrate architecture with the natural environment, enhancing visitor engagement.

Observation Tower

The observation tower serves as the main feature of the design, featuring a glass observation window that offers expansive views of the geological structures around it. This window allows visitors to see and understand the tectonic plates while taking in the surrounding vistas. The tower encourages exploration and provides a place for quiet reflection, creating a powerful connection between people and nature.

Access and Pathways

The project includes two bridges that connect the northern and southern sections, along with a designated walking path in the eastern area. These routes are designed to facilitate movement across the site while guiding visitors to different geological highlights. By focusing on accessibility, the design respects the existing landscape, allowing guests to navigate through the rocky terrain without causing significant disruption.

Visitor Amenities

A pavilion enhances the visitor experience with essential amenities such as changing rooms, showers, and an instructor's area for those wanting to swim in Kvennagya cave. These facilities add comfort and convenience for guests. The visitor center also features a gallery that shares the geological and historical context of the area, providing educational opportunities that enrich the visit.

Sustainability Features

Sustainability is an important aspect of the project, as indicated by a green roof that filters rainwater. Additionally, transparent solar panels are incorporated into the building’s façade. These panels generate energy while allowing natural light to enter the interior spaces. This combination of sustainable technology and architectural design highlights a commitment to environmental responsibility.

The design of the Iceland Cave Tower connects visitors to the geological landscape, encouraging exploration and understanding of the natural environment. The careful integration of features and amenities enhances the experience, inviting ongoing curiosity and discovery.

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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

Enter an open architecture
competition now

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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