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Tectonic-Inspired Tower Integrating Concrete and Geothermal Systems for Visitor Engagement

Authors:
Mara Apatachioae, Ben Bryan
Tectonic-Inspired Tower Integrating Concrete and Geothermal Systems for Visitor Engagement

Project in-detail

Rising from the rugged landscape, a tectonic-inspired tower utilizes prefabricated concrete and geothermal systems to enhance visitor interaction with Iceland's unique geological features through an engaging observation experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
Rises from a geothermal landscape within the Mid Atlantic Ridge.
02
Utilizes prefabricated concrete panels for efficient onsite assembly.
03
Features a continuous walkway resembling tectonic plates.
04
Incorporates geothermal systems for electricity and heating.
05
Provides multiple viewing levels for enhanced visitor interaction.

The Grjótagjá Tower stands in a unique geological location where the Eurasian and North American tectonic plates meet. This structure serves an important function as an observation tower and visitor center, designed to help people explore the stunning geothermal features and caves in the surrounding area. Taking inspiration from the natural landscape, the tower fits well within its rugged environment and invites visitors to enjoy a series of elevated viewpoints.

Architecture Concept

The design of the Grjótagjá Tower creates a connection between the building and the landscape. The roof resembles the shapes of tectonic plates rising from the earth, creating a continuous walkway along the fissure. This design encourages visitors to engage with their surroundings, allowing them to appreciate the unique geological formations from various angles.

Materials and Structure

The tower is built mostly from prefabricated concrete panels, which reflects a practical approach to construction in a remote area. These panels are organized in a grid layout, making on-site assembly easier while addressing transportation challenges. The structure is supported by pad foundations that help limit environmental disruption. Concrete columns provide stability without dominating the visual landscape.

Interior Spaces

Inside, the lobby and cafe areas reflect the rough and natural characteristics of the nearby terrain. The curved ceilings evoke the shapes found in caves, creating an inviting atmosphere that ties the interior to the building's external environment. This careful design enhances the visitor experience and reinforces the connection between the building and the landscape.

Geothermal Integration

Geothermal systems are a key feature of the tower, serving multiple functions while promoting sustainability. These systems provide electricity and warm water, while steam rising from the building adds a unique visual element. This steam complements the overall design and strengthens the connection between the architecture and the geothermal activity present in the area. Visitors experience a tangible link to the natural forces that shape the environment around them.

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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

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