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Solar-Illuminated Paths and Structural Steel Towers in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Alessio Comandini, Samuele Gori, Federica Marchi, Michele Sdruccioli
Solar-Illuminated Paths and Structural Steel Towers in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Solar panels atop steel pyramids illuminate pathways leading to caves, while a tower composed of structural steel and wooden elements integrates seamlessly into the Icelandic landscape, serving as a hub for exploration and interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
The tower's shape is designed to enhance natural light penetration into the interior.
02
Pyramids vary in height to provide functional seating and illumination.
03
Solar panels on the tallest pyramid contribute to off-grid energy needs.
04
The project employs a modular design, allowing for potential relocation.
05
Carvings in the tower create unique vantage points for users.

The design project is situated in a landscape that merges with its surroundings, fostering a close relationship between nature and structure. Designed as an "in situ" work, the tower modifies the landscape while also allowing itself to be shaped by the environment. Through various openings and carvings, users are encouraged to engage with the space, promoting exploration and interaction with both the building and the site.

Concept and Movement

Movement is a central theme in the design. The architecture supports a journey for users, facilitating a flow that connects the inside with the outside. The ability to disassemble and reassemble the structure means it can adapt to different contexts, offering flexibility in its use. As individuals navigate through the space, they discover different viewpoints, enhancing their experience of the environment.

Pyramids and Pathways

The pyramids serve as guiding elements along the path to the nearby caves. Designed at three heights—100 cm, 160 cm, and 210 cm—each pyramid has a specific function. The shortest is designed for seating, while the tallest incorporates solar panels for nighttime lighting. This combination of practicality and visual appeal strengthens the overall character of the design.

Energy and Sustainability

Energy considerations are important, with projected requirements at around 25,000 kWh each year from the nearby Bjarnarflag power station. This approach minimizes the impact on the environment while supporting the design's essential features. The thoughtful integration of energy sources reflects a commitment to ecological responsibility within the project.

Construction details are laid out clearly, starting with the assembly of a structural frame consisting of cylindrical beams, ball joints, and ground joints. This is followed by the installation of stairs and plasterboard walls for bathrooms and kitchen areas. Key components, such as H-section beams for holding glass, wooden beams, and laminated glass, contribute to the building's function and look. Paths created by steel pyramids guide visitors toward the caves, enhancing usability and the visual landscape experience.

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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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