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Recycled Planks and Boulder-Connected Fins Framing Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Merlin Augele, Yannik Palowski, Rafael Helm
Recycled Planks and Boulder-Connected Fins Framing Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Situated within the volcanic landscape of Hverfjall, a structure of recycled wooden planks and boulder-connected fins provides a bi-directional lookout point that invites exploration and engagement with the surrounding scenery.
5 key facts about this project
01
Recycled wooden planks create a sustainable structure that minimizes environmental impact.
02
Boulder-connected fins provide structural support while blending into the natural landscape.
03
The lookout point features bi-directional access for enhanced visitor movement.
04
Integrated pathways guide visitors through diverse viewpoints of the volcanic scenery.
05
Construction methods account for limited road access, ensuring efficient on-site assembly.

The Hverfjall lookout point is set against the impressive backdrop of the Hverfjall volcano in Iceland, transforming how visitors engage with the striking environment. It serves as an observatory for people to connect with the stunning scenery while navigating the rugged landscape. The design highlights a strong relationship with the surrounding terrain, encouraging an interactive experience for those who come to explore.

Concept and Integration

The design embeds the lookout point into the hillside to blend with the natural features of the site. This integration respects the existing topography and allows for a pathway that welcomes visitors. By providing various viewpoints, the lookout enhances the experience of the unique volcanic landscape. Users can wander and discover new perspectives on the scenery, fostering a deeper connection to their surroundings.

Accessibility and Structure

The structure is designed for access from multiple directions, ensuring that all visitors can move freely and safely. This commitment to accessibility promotes inclusivity and encourages engagement with the landscape. The relationship between the built structure and the hillside remains intact, making it feel like a part of the natural setting.

Construction Techniques

The construction approach considers limited road access to the site, addressing practical challenges head-on. Boulder-connected wood fins form the backbone of the structure, making assembly straightforward and manageable. Reinforcing the lookout point is a system of metal rods that provides essential stability, ensuring the integrity of the structure in this dynamic environment.

Materiality and Sustainability

The outer form of the lookout point uses recycled wooden planks, reflecting an awareness of sustainability within the design. This environmentally friendly choice deepens the connection between the structure and the site. The design is completed with stairs and railings that guide visitors safely to the observation area, combining functionality with the overall vision of creating a space that complements the stunning landscape.

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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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