Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Triangular Landmark Featuring Recycled Glass and Sustainable Design Elements

Author:
Brian Zambrano
Triangular Landmark Featuring Recycled Glass and Sustainable Design Elements

Project in-detail

The triangular form, constructed with a curtain of recycled glass, integrates geological symbolism with sustainable features to create a visitor center that enhances the exploration of Iceland's unique caves.
5 key facts about this project
01
Triangular design symbolizes the convergence of tectonic plates.
02
Recycled glass curtain minimizes environmental impact while enhancing visibility.
03
Wind turbine incorporated for energy self-sufficiency.
04
Walking Path Modules improve safety and accessibility in rugged terrain.
05
Observation platform offers elevated views of the surrounding landscape.

The design for Grjótagjá is located in Iceland, providing visitors with a unique exploration of the area's geological features. The main concept revolves around a triangular shape that symbolizes the collision of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. This design serves to create a clear landmark and connects the built environment to the natural surroundings, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Design Concept

The triangular form serves both aesthetic and practical purposes, marking a clear entrance and guiding visitors into the space. Two overlapping triangles create a negative space that reflects the valleys formed by tectonic activities. This geometric design invites individuals to enter, drawing attention to the geological significance of the site while promoting a sense of connection with the landscape.

Visitor Experience

The design carefully considers how visitors will move through the space. Upon arrival, guests check in at a dedicated area where they can arrange times for visiting the Kvennagjá or Karlagjá caves. The inclusion of a lobby and café provides a space for visitors to relax, engage with informational displays, and shop while waiting for their scheduled visits. This encourages a deeper engagement with the environment and enhances the overall experience.

Sustainability Initiatives

Sustainability plays a vital role in the project, which incorporates features designed to ensure resource efficiency and environmental responsibility. A closed water recirculation system is included to manage heating throughout the year. Natural ventilation benefits from Iceland's cool climate, reducing reliance on energy. Plans for a wind turbine also support energy independence. These elements reflect a commitment to reducing ecological impact while embracing modern sustainable practices.

Structural Elements

Materials selected for the project align with its overall design goals. A curtain system made of recycled glass enhances the building's exterior, providing a contemporary look while adhering to environmental principles. The inclusion of a reusable steel frame facilitates off-site manufacturing and efficient assembly, streamlining the construction process.

Walking Path Modules are designed to guide visitors safely toward cave entrances. These markers are strategically spaced to ensure visibility in various lighting conditions, improving safety and accessibility in the rugged landscape. The thoughtful arrangement of these elements fosters a direct connection between visitors and the geological features, further heightening the understanding of the site’s natural history.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

MICROHOME 10: Celebrating Small-Scale Living with €100,000 Prize Fund and Kingspan’s Innovation

`
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

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy