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Towers of Observation with Conic Camera Systems in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Romuald Nebot, Johnny Ghoussoub
Towers of Observation with Conic Camera Systems in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Five individual observation towers equipped with conic camera systems rise in Iceland’s unique tectonic landscape, allowing visitors to engage directly with the region's climatic changes and geological features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Five observation towers designed for individual use enhance personal engagement with the landscape.
02
Each tower is equipped with a six-camera system for capturing climate variations.
03
The slender rod design minimizes visual impact on the surrounding environment.
04
A walking path directs visitors to geological features, reinforcing site connectivity.
05
Common areas provide amenities for social interaction and comfort.

The project involves the construction of a series of slender observation towers located in Iceland, where two tectonic plates meet. This location provides a unique opportunity to engage with the region's rich geological and climatic features. Five individual towers aim to offer immersive experiences, allowing visitors to closely observe the changing environment. The design focuses on simplicity and a direct connection to nature.

Observation Towers

Five sleek observation towers rise as thin rods, each designed for individual use. This layout encourages a personal connection between the observer and the surrounding landscape. The minimal structure reduces visual and physical impact, allowing the towers to blend into the Icelandic terrain without dominating the scene.

Technological Integration

Each tower is equipped with a six-camera system set within a conic base, designed to capture various climatic and geological phenomena. The cameras have filters that provide different views of the environment. This technological aspect enhances the experience of observing the regional climate, helping users understand Iceland’s diverse weather patterns over the seasons.

Accessibility and Circulation

A walking path is placed in front of a cave, making it easier for visitors to access the towers and engage with the geological features of the site. This pathway guides observers directly to the towers while highlighting the connection between both sides of the tectonic fault. The layout promotes smooth movement between the different project elements, improving the overall user experience.

Common Spaces

Common areas are included in the design, featuring a fireplace, a coffee shop, and restrooms. These spaces serve as spots for social interaction and comfort. The inclusion of amenities encourages visitors to gather and share their experiences. The warmth from the fireplace creates a cozy environment, inviting people to stay and appreciate the natural surroundings.

With user experience in mind, the project reflects Iceland’s ecological landscape. The lightweight towers harmonize with the natural features of the environment, promoting a thoughtful dialogue between human activity and the landscape.

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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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