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Rammed Earth Tunnels and Viewing Platforms Above Tectonic Fractures in Iceland

Authors:
Oscar Boutwell Draper, Marek Struski
Rammed Earth Tunnels and Viewing Platforms Above Tectonic Fractures in Iceland
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Elevated 15 meters above a tectonic fracture, a tower constructed with rammed earth incorporates tunnels leading to caves, offering visitors an immersive experience of Iceland's unique geological landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated viewing platform 15 meters above a tectonic fracture provides panoramic views.
02
Excavated square on-site sources materials while creating a neutral gathering space.
03
Rammed earth tunnels immerse visitors in the geological context of the area.
04
Marble sphere at the center of the square serves as a symbolic focal point.
05
Design minimizes environmental impact while enhancing visitor engagement with the landscape.

The design emerges in the unique geological context of Iceland, where a tower responds to its surroundings made up of basalt formations. This setting reflects the region's volcanic and geothermal history. The tower acts as a landmark, inviting exploration and interaction with nature. It connects the built environment with the natural habitat, creating a thoughtful relationship between the two.

SITE EXCAVATION AND NEUTRAL SQUARE

A square has been excavated on-site to gather materials for constructing the tower. This square serves as a neutral area that links the tower to the nearby caves. It creates a protective space that shields visitors from the harsh conditions typical of the landscape. The design takes into account the character of the site, minimizing direct contact with the rugged environment while promoting social interaction among visitors.

RAMMED EARTH TUNNELS

Rammed earth is the main material used in the tunnels that lead to the caves. These tunnels provide a pathway for visitors, helping them transition from the tower to the cave entrances. The texture of rammed earth allows for a tangible connection to the site, reinforcing its natural qualities. Visitors are enveloped in an experience that ties them closely to the geological context.

VIEWING PLATFORM

A viewing platform positioned 15 meters above a tectonic fracture provides a unique perspective of the surrounding landscape. This platform encourages visitors to reflect on the geological forces that have shaped the area. The thoughtful placement of the platform enhances the visitor's experience, allowing for an appreciation of Iceland’s distinct topography.

At the center of the neutral square stands a marble sphere, contrasting with the surrounding basalt. This element acts as a focal point, enriching the overall experience. It creates a balance between the raw nature of the landscape and human intervention, grounding the design and inviting contemplation.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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