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Sculpted Concrete Forms Embracing Volcanic Landscape for Visitor Exploration

Authors:
Laura elena Barba prieto, Isadora Vargas delgado
Sculpted Concrete Forms Embracing Volcanic Landscape for Visitor Exploration

Project in-detail

Sculpted concrete forms rise from a rugged volcanic landscape, creating a visually integrated space that guides visitors through an immersive experience to explore the nearby caves.
5 key facts about this project
01
Sculpted concrete bridges blend seamlessly with the landscape.
02
Multiple levels provide diverse visitor experiences and functions.
03
Large windows frame panoramic views of the surrounding terrain.
04
Low-impact pathways enhance accessibility throughout the site.
05
Natural soil integrates into the structure, reinforcing landscape connection.

The Grjótagjá's Caves Tower is situated in a rocky volcanic landscape. Designed to function as a guiding and interactive space, it provides a warm refuge in an otherwise cold and windy area. The structure's unique form enhances the exploration experience for visitors heading to the nearby caves.

Architectural Concept

The design focuses on creating a connection between the building and its natural surroundings. It demonstrates how constructed elements can work in harmony with the landscape. The tower’s shape invites visitors to engage with both its inside and outside, reflecting the rugged features of the geological context. It serves as a landmark that integrates with the site’s characteristics.

Pathways and Accessibility

An important feature of the design is the low-impact walking paths that enhance visitor access. These paths are made of lighter color gravel that contrasts with the natural soil, making them easy to follow. This careful approach to path design prioritizes accessibility while respecting the environment, improving the overall visitor experience.

Structural Elements

The project includes bridges made from sculpted concrete rocks that rise from the ground. These structures add visual interest and provide stability. They help to connect the tower with the surrounding landscape while facilitating movement throughout the site. The bridges emphasize the relationship between architecture and nature.

Interior Levels

Inside, the Grjótagjá's Caves Tower has multiple levels, including a Top Level, Sight Level, Cafeteria Level, Services Level, and Entrance Level. Each level is designed to support different activities and allow for smooth movement between spaces. This organization fosters a sense of connection and engagement as visitors explore the tower.

Large windows frame the most impressive views of the landscape, linking the interior with the outside. They allow natural light to fill the spaces and create a dynamic atmosphere that changes throughout the day.

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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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