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Slanted Roof Over Volcanic Ash: A Concrete Resting Station Amidst Iceland's Geology

Authors:
Tom Rumberger, Leonie Scholz
Slanted Roof Over Volcanic Ash: A Concrete Resting Station Amidst Iceland's Geology

Project in-detail

Constructed from local volcanic ash and concrete, the towering structure features a slanted roof that offers expansive views, serving as a functional resting station for tourists exploring Iceland's unique caves.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using local volcanic ash mixed with concrete.
02
Features a slanted roof that doubles as an observation deck.
03
Integrates multiple entrances for improved accessibility.
04
Designed to reflect the geological warping zones of the landscape.
05
Encourages visitor engagement with the surrounding natural environment.

The VINÁTTA TOWER is located in Iceland and serves as a resting station for tourists visiting nearby caves. The design focuses on connecting the building with its natural surroundings. Inspired by the landscape's geological features, particularly the meeting point of two continental plates, the architecture promotes an experience that encourages visitors to engage with the environment while enjoying basic amenities.

Design Concept

The structure consists of two concrete bodies, which are purposely simple in design. This minimalism allows the tower to stand out against the rugged landscape without overwhelming it. The triangular shape of the tower reflects the warping zones formed by tectonic activity, symbolizing stability amid an ever-changing environment. As a resting place, the VINÁTTA TOWER invites exploration and contemplation.

Materiality

Concrete is the primary material used in the VINÁTTA TOWER's construction. It features a unique blend that includes ash and black sand from local volcanic sources. This choice not only enhances the building's aesthetic but also aligns with sustainable practices by using materials that are readily available in the area. Such an approach helps to reduce the environmental impact of transportation and contributes to the project's connection to the place it occupies.

Functionality and Layout

The layout of the VINÁTTA TOWER is designed to facilitate easy access for visitors. There are two entrances to allow smooth movement throughout the space. The ground-level area serves various functions, providing seating and an information desk that acts as a bar. This arrangement balances accessibility for visitors with the need for privacy in areas like restrooms. The design prioritizes comfort and security for everyone who uses the space.

Interaction with Nature

The slanted roof invites visitors to walk on top, offering expansive views of the surrounding landscape. This feature transforms the roof into a place for active engagement with nature. By walking on the roof, visitors can appreciate the beauty of the Icelandic scenery all around them. In this way, the VINÁTTA TOWER fosters a connection that encourages people to reflect on their surroundings while enjoying the functional aspects of the building.

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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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