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Timber and Void Structure Enhancing Geological Engagement in Iceland

Authors:
Josh Coppick, Chandler Brown
Timber and Void Structure Enhancing Geological Engagement in Iceland

Project in-detail

Constructed with a unique sawn void that connects the observation tower to the surrounding geological features, the design encourages exploration while providing access to the natural caves of Grjótagjá in Iceland.
5 key facts about this project
01
An exposed void structure provides direct views of the geological rift.
02
The design integrates heavy timber elements to enhance warmth and intimacy.
03
Pathways are elevated to protect visitors from the rugged terrain and harsh weather.
04
Wooden-framed panels echo local geological formations in their motif.
05
The project prioritizes visitor engagement with the surrounding natural landscape.

The SIERRA GRJÓTAGJÁ project is an observation tower located in Grjótagjá, Iceland, designed to enhance access to the region's natural caves. This structure embodies the concept of division, drawing inspiration from the tectonic movements of the area. The overall design connects the built environment with the geological features, inviting users to engage with both.

Geological Reflection

The design features a prominent void that runs through the structure, mirroring the geological rift of the landscape. This void serves a dual purpose: it provides visual access to the cave entries and emphasizes the dynamic relationship between the architecture and the natural surroundings. Visitors can closely observe the geological features while navigating the space.

Pathway Integration

A carefully designed pathway leads visitors across the lava field in a protected environment. The elevated platform keeps users safe from harsh weather and rugged terrain. The linear design of the path aligns with the motifs found in the surrounding geology. This encourages exploration and interaction with the landscape.

Interior Atmosphere

Inside the tower, heavy timber structures contribute warmth and intimacy. The design incorporates wooden-framed panels between supporting columns, reinforcing the sawn motif and enhancing thermal efficiency. This creates a comforting environment for visitors, echoing the natural forms of the landscape outside.

As people approach the structure, they experience a mix of textures and forms that reflect the surrounding geology. The interplay of materials highlights the relationship between the natural landscape and the built environment, inviting thoughtful engagement with this distinct location.

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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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