Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Sheltering Views From A Tectonic Observation Platform Made With Concrete And Timber

Authors:
Rebekah Schaberg, Ugo Ribeiro, Florian Kosche, Mattia Carioti
Sheltering Views From A Tectonic Observation Platform Made With Concrete And Timber

Project in-detail

Rising 30 meters above the ground, the observation platform crafted from concrete and timber offers unobstructed views of tectonic features in Iceland, serving as an interpretive visitor center for the Grjótagjá caves.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rooftop design mimics a cave structure to blend with the natural landscape.
02
Observation platform is elevated 30 meters to provide panoramic geological views.
03
Constructed using local aggregates to minimize transportation impacts.
04
Paths inspired by traditional Icelandic designs enhance visitor accessibility.
05
Incorporates rainwater management systems to promote sustainability.

Ævintýri serves as a modern landmark and visitor center for the Grjótagjá caves in Iceland. The design aims to provide an engaging experience that starts as visitors approach from different directions. The building works in harmony with its natural surroundings, featuring a roof that resembles a cave. This design offers shelter while encouraging people to explore the natural landscape.

Architectural Form and Function

The form of Ævintýri is carefully shaped, with a compact footprint that meets the needs of its various functions while considering its environmental impact. Vehicles and bicycles are directed under the curved roof, effectively separating the traffic from those walking to the caves. This organization enhances the visitor's experience and fosters a sense of connection to the surrounding environment.

Visitor Experience and Flow

When visitors arrive, they have options for how to interact with the site. They can bypass the building to reach the public caves through new paths, or they can stop at a service window to get information or tickets. The design includes changing rooms for guests preparing for cave visits. On the second level, visitors will find a lounge, gift shop, and café, all designed to provide views of the stunning geological features surrounding the area.

Sustainability and Material Choices

The design incorporates concrete, steel, and timber, focusing on local materials where possible. The concrete base utilizes regional aggregates, reducing transportation needs and enhancing sustainability. This choice also simplifies long-term upkeep. The lightweight roof is designed to manage rainwater effectively, promoting environmental responsibility.

Accessibility and Pathways

Ævintýri prioritizes accessibility through carefully planned pathways inspired by traditional Icelandic designs. Concrete pavers mixed with black sand aggregates create safe walkways while allowing for water drainage. This thoughtful approach helps merge the built environment with nature, ensuring that visitors can move comfortably and safely.

The observation platform, raised 30 meters above ground, offers expansive views of the dramatic landscape. Open and inviting, it’s a place where visitors can appreciate the geological features that define the Grjótagjá area. This elevated perspective enriches the overall experience, making it a significant feature of the design.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy