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Plywood Observation Tower Anchored in Local Stone Embracing Natural Landscape

Author:
Anibal alfonso Torrealba nunez
Plywood Observation Tower Anchored in Local Stone Embracing Natural Landscape

Project in-detail

A plywood observation tower, highlighted by local stone construction, provides sweeping views of the tectonic landscape while serving as a central hub for visitors exploring the Grjotagja caves and surrounding hiking trails.
5 key facts about this project
01
Plywood observation tower guides hikers safely at night.
02
Local stone integrates the structures with the geological landscape.
03
Three landscape support modules enhance navigability without disrupting nature.
04
The reception area serves multiple functions to support visitor needs.
05
Illuminated pathways provide safety and orientation for nighttime visitors.

The design around the Grjotagja caves combines visitor facilities with the natural landscape. In a location that features rich geological characteristics, the goal is to improve the experience for those walking the trails while offering necessary services. The design connects hiking paths with public transport options, highlighting accessibility and inviting interaction between the structures and the environment.

Central Reception Building

At the core of the design is the central reception building, which stands at a crossroads of several hiking trails. This space provides important visitor amenities such as information services, administrative offices, public toilets, and a café. By offering these functions in one place, the reception encourages visitors to gather, explore, and engage with the natural surroundings.

Observation Tower

Nearby, the observation tower emerges as a notable structure within the setting. Created as a multi-level platform, it offers wide views of the surrounding area. Visitors can observe geological features, including the notable tectonic fissure, from a new perspective. The tower is also equipped with lights that come on at night, providing a guiding point for hikers navigating back to the main hub.

Landscape Support Modules

The design includes three landscape support modules, which fit into the natural contours of the land. These modules help define visitor pathways, making navigation easier while protecting the ecological balance of the site. By enhancing access and improving the experience for visitors, they play an important role in the overall plan.

Material Usage

Sustainability is a focus in the selection of materials. Local stone is used for the reception building to create a solid connection with the surrounding landscape. Plywood features in structural elements like beams and slabs, while the observation tower uses a mix of plywood planks and a semi-transparent polycarbonate skin. This choice of materials meets functional needs and helps the buildings integrate with their environment.

The attention to how the structures are positioned in relation to the natural features emphasizes the unique qualities of the Grjotagja caves area. This design reinforces the importance of nature within the visitor experience.

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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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