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Spiraling Paths and Central Skylight in a Transcontinental Observation Tower

Authors:
Ryo Ishioka, Andrew Yu
Spiraling Paths and Central Skylight in a Transcontinental Observation Tower

Project in-detail

The Helix Tower's spiraling paths converge beneath a central skylight, providing a dynamic visual link between earth and sky while serving as a contemplative space for observing the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Helix paths create a continuous flow of movement.
02
Central skylight enhances natural light throughout the tower.
03
Apertures offer framed views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Water well symbolizes harmony with nature at ground level.
05
Observation point connects users with both earth and sky.

The Helix Tower, located near the caves of Grjótagjá, is a thoughtful example of how architecture can connect with its surroundings. The design reflects the area's unique geography, where two tectonic plates meet. The tower aims to explore themes of duality and harmony, creating experiences that resonate with visitors as they move through its spaces.

Design Concept

The tower features two spiraling paths that rise and twist around each other. These paths lead to a point at the top where they converge, symbolizing the blending of different identities. This design creates a practical way for people to move upward while allowing them to engage with their environment. The paths represent life’s complexities, encouraging conversations about identity and place.

Spatial Composition

At the center of the tower is a large skylight that serves an important role in illuminating the interior. This design feature connects the space below with the sky above, enhancing the natural light that enters. Along the spiraling surfaces are cuts that allow views outward. These openings create a changing perspective, helping people feel more connected to the outside world as they climb.

Ground Floor Experience

Visitors begin their journey by encountering a water well positioned in the center of the ground floor. This element offers both function and symbolism, inviting people to stop and reflect. The well contributes to a sense of peace, preparing guests for the ascent. It encourages individuals to consider their relationship with nature as they begin their journey upward.

Architectural Resolution

The Helix Tower stands as a reflection of its location, bringing together themes of human experience and environmental awareness. The careful arrangement of pathways, light, and open views creates a space for contemplation. As visitors reach the top, they find a vantage point that frames the landscape, completing the journey and connecting the structure to its scenic surroundings.

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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

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
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