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Sustainable Structure of Wood and Steel Embracing Natural Landscapes

Author:
Giovanni Guarino
Sustainable Structure of Wood and Steel Embracing Natural Landscapes

Project in-detail

Constructed with a blend of wood and steel, the tower enhances its natural surroundings while providing an engaging space for observation, exhibitions, and community interaction.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using a mix of wood and steel for durability and aesthetic appeal.
02
Incorporates a "building CPU" for efficient energy management.
03
Features small exhibition spaces on each landing to enhance visitor experience.
04
Utilizes rainwater collection systems to promote sustainability.
05
Designed as a temporary structure to minimize environmental impact.

The Iceland Cave Tower features a unique design that stands out in its natural setting. Situated in an open landscape, it serves multiple functions, including an observation point, exhibition area, tourist information center, and café. The design prioritizes accessibility and comfort, allowing visitors to interact with both the structure and its surroundings.

Material Choices

Wood and steel are key materials in the tower's construction. Wood adds warmth and a natural feel, while steel provides the necessary strength to support the design. Together, they create a sturdy yet inviting space that aligns with the project's focus on sustainability. The combination of these materials helps to facilitate a design that is both functional and visually appealing.

Visitor Experience

The layout encourages visitors to journey upward through the building. Each level offers small exhibition spaces and scenic views, allowing guests to pause and enjoy their surroundings. This vertical progression creates a connection with the landscape. Each landing provides a moment for reflection and appreciation of the natural beauty outside.

Sustainability Measures

Sustainability is an important aspect of the tower's design. The compact shape and efficient use of energy are essential features. A system that manages water collection, heating, and energy use is integrated into the structure. Renewable energy sources, such as wind and solar power, are also considered to meet the building's energy needs.

Design Integration

The tower is intended as a temporary structure, which reduces its impact on the environment. This choice emphasizes the building's relationship with the landscape, blending its form with natural features. The careful proportions and inclusion of rainwater collection systems highlight a commitment to eco-friendliness, creating a space that interacts thoughtfully with its surroundings. Each design detail serves to enhance the functional and aesthetic qualities, establishing a clear connection to nature.

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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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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
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