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Transparent Band Over Tectonic Crevice with Aluminum Cladding

Authors:
James Goodeve, Mathieu Howard
Transparent Band Over Tectonic Crevice with Aluminum Cladding

Project in-detail

The upper-level transparent band offers panoramic views of the crevice shaped by tectonic activity, while the aluminum cladding ensures both resilience and visual connection to the Icelandic landscape, serving as a public space for visitors to engage with the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Upper-level transparent band provides unobstructed views of the tectonic crevice.
02
Two structural forms symbolize the interaction of colliding tectonic plates.
03
Integration of a central staircase enhances visitor accessibility and flow.
04
Public café positioned above the crevice promotes social interaction.
05
Aluminum cladding offers durability while reflecting the surrounding landscape.

The Tektónískt Tower is situated in the dramatic Icelandic landscape, designed to provide a rich experience of the area's unique geological features. The building concept centers around tectonic activity, with two structural forms that symbolize the interaction of colliding tectonic plates. This approach helps visitors learn about the region's geology while creating a meaningful connection between the built environment and the natural surroundings.

Design Concept

The design includes an upper-level transparent band that offers wide views of the crevice formed by tectonic forces. This feature allows visitors to closely observe geological phenomena, enhancing their understanding of the changing landscape. The ground level features a central staircase that leads to various spaces, including a private spa providing access to local hot springs.

Spatial Organization

On the second level, a café and public space are located strategically above the crevice, inviting social interaction and moments of reflection. A raised walkway runs along the edge of the crevice, providing a defined route for exploration while preserving the integrity of the landscape. This thoughtful arrangement encourages safe and comfortable navigation throughout the site.

Material Selection

The project uses aluminum and stone cladding, which are chosen for their ability to withstand the harsh climate of Iceland. The aluminum exterior reflects the natural landscape while ensuring durability against winter weather. The stone cladding connects the structure to the geological environment. This material combination supports both aesthetic goals and functional needs.

The Tektónískt Tower integrates educational and experiential elements that encourage visitors to explore the tectonic features of Iceland. As they ascend to the transparent band, they can frame views of the dramatic crevice, which reinforce the relationship between the architecture 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

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