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Sustainable Green Concrete Tower Integrating Natural Caves with Dynamic Pathways

Authors:
Olle Johnsson, Alexander Brown, Erik Marklinder
Sustainable Green Concrete Tower Integrating Natural Caves with Dynamic Pathways

Project in-detail

The integration of a green concrete tower with dynamic pathways connects visitors to the Kvennagjá and Karlagjá caves, creating a unique exploration experience in the Icelandic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
The design features a double helix pathway system that enhances visitor movement throughout the site.
02
Green concrete is used for the core structure, reflecting local geological characteristics.
03
Two concrete walls symbolize the narrow caves, creating intimate interior spaces.
04
The tower's dynamic façade shifts between reflective qualities during the day and luminous presence at night.
05
Distinct sightlines are established to highlight the surrounding tectonic plates and natural landscape.

Twisted Paths is an architectural design that integrates with its geographic location, marked by the nearby Kvennagjá and Karlagjá caves. The focus of the project is a prominent tower that serves as the central point for visitors. Its overall concept emphasizes movement and connection, shaping the way people engage with the natural landscape surrounding it.

Spatial Organization

The design establishes a clear north-south axis, linking the two caves directly. Above, an east-west axis provides views of the tectonic plates in the area, enhancing the project's relationship with its setting. The pathways are arranged in a double helix, promoting exploration and offering different entry points for those who visit. This structure allows for varied experiences as users navigate the site.

Materiality and Structure

The building features three layers that transition from a solid concrete core at the bottom to lighter materials above. Green concrete is used to create a link with the natural environment while supporting sustainable practices. This choice adds a tangible quality that pairs well with the rugged terrain. The design connects horizontal pathways with vertical stairs, guiding visitors through the various levels in an intuitive manner.

Experiential Design

Inside the tower, two concrete walls represent the narrow caves, creating a close and engaging atmosphere that contrasts with the wider spaces outside. This arrangement encourages people to interact with different areas, highlighting the importance of both private and open environments. The paths are thoughtfully designed to make movement feel natural, inviting users to explore the entire structure.

Visual Dynamics

The façade of Twisted Paths interacts with the outside landscape, reflecting natural elements during the day and glowing at night. This visual change enhances the building's presence in the area, allowing it to blend in while also standing out. These characteristics showcase how the structure relates to its environment and provides a unique point of interest within the natural 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

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