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Reflective Glass and Expanded Metal Structure Integrating Icelandic Geology as a Visitor Center

Authors:
György Töős, Daniel Töős, Tünde Katona, Krisztián Beretvás
Reflective Glass and Expanded Metal Structure Integrating Icelandic Geology as a Visitor Center

Project in-detail

High-reflective glass and expanded metal harmonize with Iceland's geological features to create a visitor center that enhances the connection between nature and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
High-reflective glass facades mirror the surrounding landscape, enhancing the integration with nature.
02
Constructed with expanded metal, the structure allows for transparency and lightness in design.
03
Incorporates photovoltaic panels for sustainable energy generation on-site.
04
The vertical composition serves as a prominent viewing platform for geological features.
05
Paths connect the visitor center to the landscape, promoting direct interaction with the environment.

The architectural project "Tectonic Periscope," located in Iceland, is designed as a visitor center aimed at enhancing the experience of exploring the region’s unique geological features. This facility not only serves as a gathering space for tourists but also as an educational resource, connecting visitors to the surrounding environment through its innovative design.

The primary function of the "Tectonic Periscope" includes providing information on the geological history of Iceland, offering panoramic views of the landscape, and creating a space for public amenities. The design integrates practical facilities like a café and exhibition areas while fostering interaction with the surrounding topography.

A key aspect of the project is its vertical composition, which enables a towering structure that stands out against the natural landscape. This verticality is not merely aesthetic but functional, serving to create a viewing platform that allows visitors to absorb the expansive views of the tectonic formations. The architectural language follows a periscope metaphor, encouraging a sense of discovery and engagement with the environment.

One unique element of this project is its careful material selection. The combination of reinforced concrete and expanded metal sheets not only ensures structural integrity but also allows for transparency and lightness. The high-reflective glass used in the upper sections of the facility further enhances this connection to the outside, as it mirrors the shifting landscape, integrating with the environment rather than dominating it. The inclusion of photovoltaic panels underscores a commitment to sustainable practices, making the structure an energy-efficient facility.

The spatial arrangement of the "Tectonic Periscope" emphasizes circulation and interaction among visitors. Design decisions prioritize both public and private zones, allowing for a seamless flow of activity without compromising the visitor experience. Integrated pathways lead visitors into the landscape, facilitating exploration beyond the immediate confines of the building.

The project distinguishes itself through its capacity to merge architectural aesthetics with functionality while maintaining a strong connection to its geographical context. The holistic approach in merging natural elements with architectural design reinforces the theme of discovery and interaction, setting the project apart from conventional visitor centers.

For those interested in a more detailed exploration of the "Tectonic Periscope," reviewing element-specific presentations such as architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs provides deeper insights into the project and its unique architectural ideas.

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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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