Architecture project // Thermowood Tower Overlooking Grjótagjá Caves with Modular Pathway Access

Thermowood Tower Overlooking Grjótagjá Caves with Modular Pathway Access

Authors:

Endre Dér, Dániel Decsi, András Zsuky

Rising 18 meters, the Thermowood tower offers panoramic views of the Grjótagjá caves while providing essential visitor facilities connected by a modular walking path designed to enhance exploration of the natural landscape.

5 key facts about this project

Rising 18 meters, the tower provides views of the surrounding thermal caves.

The modular path adapts to the rocky terrain with height-adjustable supports.

Thermowood cladding enhances the building's thermal performance and visual warmth.

The entrance building integrates an information point and a panoramic bar for visitors.

Geothermal heating systems reduce environmental impact and energy costs.

General keywords

iceland visitor center thermal waters shipping containers bathing facility modular path experiential space panoramic views natural landscape caves

Project specific keywords

thermowood container cage geothermal heating height-adjustable rocky terrain

The design is located in Iceland, specifically around the Grjótagjá thermal water caves. The visitor center is created to provide a unique experience while connecting visitors to the natural environment. Using shipping containers as the main building blocks, the project is both flexible and efficient. Key elements include a tower, an entrance building, a bathing area, and a walking path that ties everything together.

Container Cage Tower

Rising 18 meters, the Container Cage Tower is the main feature of the design. It is built from a combination of a 40-foot and a 20-foot shipping container, along with two horizontal 40-foot containers that serve different purposes. This combination offers a distinct space for visitors, allowing them to enjoy expansive views of the surrounding caves and landscape. The tower creates a noticeable presence while inviting exploration from its many levels.

Entrance Building

Visitors first encounter the entrance building, which provides important services such as a waiting area, an information point, toilets, and a bar. Its strategic placement encourages smooth flow, making it easy for guests to access the rest of the site. The design aims to engage visitors right from the start, creating a comfortable transition into the natural attractions.

Bathing Facility

A separate bathing facility is designed to enhance the experience further. It includes lockers, toilets, and a sauna. This area allows guests to enjoy the warmth of the thermal waters in a relaxed setting. The design focuses on comfort, complementing the sense of adventure that comes with visiting the caves.

Modular Walking Path

The modular walking path links the various buildings and encourages exploration of the site. Designed with five basic elements, the path adapts to the uneven terrain. Height-adjustable supports provide stability while ensuring safe access for visitors. This design invites people to wander through the rocky landscape and appreciate the beauty of the caves.

Materials chosen for the project include Thermowood and stainless galvanized steel, which offer durability while being suitable for the harsh environment. Natural light filters through openings in the design, creating a play of light and shadow that adds to the overall experience.