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Spiral Tower with Lava Stone and Composite Wood Integration

Author:
Ari Bungers
Spiral Tower with Lava Stone and Composite Wood Integration

Project in-detail

The spiral tower, constructed with a combination of lava stone and composite wood, offers panoramic views while serving as a visitor centre adjacent to a cave, effectively blending functionality with environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
The roof features a rainwater collection system for sustainable water management.
02
A spiral viewing tower provides multiple vantage points of the surrounding landscape.
03
Composite wood is utilized for structural elements, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
04
The café offers seating at the base of the tower, promoting visitor interaction.
05
Parking and loading areas are designed for efficient access and traffic flow.

The visitor centre is located in proximity to a cave, designed to connect with the surrounding natural environment. The centre enhances the visitor experience by offering a range of amenities and features in a layout that promotes ease of movement. Its design emphasizes functionality alongside sustainability, creating an inviting space for exploration and relaxation.

Architecture Concept
The overall layout is structured with open pathways and designated viewing areas that encourage visitors to engage with the landscape. Each part of the visitor experience is considered, from the entrance to the varied amenities such as the café and restrooms. The inclusion of a meeting plaza facilitates social interactions, providing a space for groups to gather.

Building Structure
This design incorporates various building steps, including a basement with a central pole supporting a spiral structure. Premade step elements create a rhythm to the design, while cladding components like the roof and glass contribute to the centre's aesthetic. Carefully planned technical installations ensure that the structure functions well without compromising user experience.

Sustainability Features
An important aspect of the visitor centre is its focus on sustainability, highlighted by a rainwater collection system. This system captures rainfall from the roof, filtering it for storage and reuse. Additionally, energy is generated from vertical windmills nearby, underscoring a commitment to reducing carbon emissions and promoting environmental responsibility.

Materials and Design Details
Materials chosen for this project include composite wood with a white finish, clear glass, natural wood, and dark gray lava stone. Each plays a role in creating a comfortable, inviting atmosphere. The spiral viewing tower stands out, providing wide views of the surroundings. Café seating at its base allows visitors to relax while enjoying the scenery. The roof features lighting that improves visibility at night, offering a welcoming feel after sunset.

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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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