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Pine Tar Clad Observation Tower Embracing Nature Through Modular Design

Author:
Jeffrey Clancy
Pine Tar Clad Observation Tower Embracing Nature Through Modular Design

Project in-detail

Constructed with pine tar-coated wood and featuring an elevated boardwalk, the design fosters a deep connection with the Icelandic landscape while serving as a visitor center for education and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with a modular design for efficient assembly in remote locations.
02
Incorporates structural insulated panels for enhanced energy efficiency.
03
Features a rainwater catchment system for sustainable water management.
04
Utilizes pine tar for weather resistance and traditional aesthetic.
05
Includes an observation tower that elevates visitor interaction with the landscape.

The GRJÓTAGJÁ Visitor Center is located in Iceland and is designed to integrate with the surrounding landscape while serving as an important stop for visitors. The design draws on traditional styles, particularly from religious buildings, which is evident in the inclusion of prominent steeples. This center functions not only as a welcoming point for tourists but also as a place for education and engagement with the natural environment.

Site Integration

The layout of the visitor center is carefully planned to enhance visitor experience and accessibility. A parking area accommodates 30 vehicles, making it easy for guests to access the facility. An elevated boardwalk connects various key features, including entrances to nearby attractions like Karlagjá and Kvennagjá. This thoughtful design minimizes the impact on the natural surroundings, allowing people to explore the area comfortably and responsibly.

Modular Construction Approach

The building adopts a modular construction method, favoring standard dimensions that allow for straightforward transport and assembly. A notable feature is the walkway module, built with a repetitive lumber frame topped with wood slats. This surface is treated with pine tar to improve durability and protect against the weather. Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs, provide energy efficiency and speed up the construction process by reducing the need for extensive on-site labor.

Sustainable Features

The center emphasizes sustainability through various integrated systems. The roof features a rainwater catchment system, effectively collecting rainwater for use in low-flow toilets and accessible drinking water. A geothermal heating system utilizes stable earth temperatures to maintain a comfortable indoor climate. To meet energy needs, the center incorporates wind turbines, demonstrating a commitment to renewable energy sources.

Design Detail

Elevated walkways allow for different views of the landscape and enhance the visitor experience. The inclusion of wood slat scrims introduces texture to the design and provides varying levels of transparency. This creates a natural flow between indoor and outdoor spaces. The overall design reflects a focus on connection to nature, highlighting the center's ability to function as both a practical facility and a tribute to the area’s ecological significance.

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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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