Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Subterranean Geo-Observation Space Constructed with Reinforced Concrete and Local Stone

Authors:
Lidia Danil, Irina Coraga, Laurentiu Milotoiu
Subterranean Geo-Observation Space Constructed with Reinforced Concrete and Local Stone

Project in-detail

Constructed with local stone and reinforced concrete, this subterranean space offers a unique geothermal experience while serving as an observatory that promotes interaction with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed below ground to minimize environmental impact and preserve the landscape.
02
Local stone and reinforced concrete were utilized to blend the structure with the geological context.
03
Features geothermal heating through thermal blankets, optimizing energy efficiency.
04
Strategically placed skylights enhance natural light while creating dynamic interior atmospheres.
05
Dual circulation paths allow visitors to experience both elevated views and immersive earthbound spaces.
Niðri is an architectural project thoughtfully integrated into a unique geological landscape where the Eurasian and American tectonic plates converge. This design responds to its environment by emphasizing a subterranean experience, steering away from traditional upward architectural trends. It focuses on creating a harmonious dialogue between the built form and the natural elements surrounding it.

The project serves as an observatory and gathering space, inviting visitors to engage with the local geothermal phenomena while fostering a deeper appreciation of the landscape's distinct characteristics. By minimizing its footprint and preserving the natural terrain, Niðri ensures that its presence enriches, rather than disrupts, the locale.

Unique Design Approaches and Spatial Organization

One notable aspect of Niðri is its spatial organization, which consists of dual circulation paths. These pathways invite exploration both upwards towards panoramic viewpoints and downwards towards an immersive experience in Kvennagjá. The design promotes fluid navigation, allowing users to experience varying atmospheres and encounters with light as they traverse the space.

The integration of materials like reinforced concrete, local stone, glass, and steel supports the project’s unique approach. The use of reinforced concrete provides structural stability while maintaining a strong connection to the earthly presence of local stone. Glass elements serve to enhance transparency and visual connectivity, allowing natural light to filter into the interior spaces. Steel grids ensure the modular pathways are both functional and unobtrusive.

Material Selection and Minimal Environmental Impact

The choice of materials in Niðri reflects both ecological sensitivity and aesthetic coherence. The architects utilized local stone to embody the surrounding geology and reinforce the visual connection to the landscape. Thermal blankets, made from natural soil, provide insulation and help to regulate temperature, offering a sustainable approach to building in a geothermal area.

The project's design approach prioritizes minimal environmental impact by embedding significant structures beneath the earth's surface. This strategy preserves the site's natural contours and encourages visitors to engage with the untouched landscape above. The integration of skylights and horizontal openings enhances the interior experience by modulating light and shadow, creating an environment that changes throughout the day.

For further insights into Niðri, including architectural plans and sections that detail its innovative designs and concepts, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation. Engaging with the project's architectural elements will provide a comprehensive understanding of its functional and strategic design outcomes.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
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
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16,979 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