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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

Project in-detail

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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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

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