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Tuff and Steel Lookout Point Embracing Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Ki hong Min
Tuff and Steel Lookout Point Embracing Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Constructed from local tuff and steel, the lookout point harmonizes with the volcanic landscape, providing visitors with an immersive experience of Iceland’s natural beauty.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed using locally sourced tuff, enhancing the connection to the landscape.
02
Steel framework provides durability against extreme weather conditions typical of the region.
03
Visitor pathways are designed to guide movement while maintaining an unobstructed view of the crater.
04
Integration of natural geography emphasizes the structure as an extension of the volcanic terrain.
05
Sustainable practices ensure minimal waste and long-lasting materials throughout construction.

The design near Hverfjall, Iceland, aims to create a lookout point that connects visitors with the surrounding volcanic landscape. The focus is on integrating the structure into the environment, allowing people to enjoy the views while considering the durability of materials and sustainability. This approach invites visitors to appreciate the natural beauty of the area.

Material Selection

The main material used is tuff, a volcanic rock that works well with the local scenery. Tuff is strong and durable, making it suitable for harsh weather conditions. Using this material helps the building blend in with the landscape and reflects a commitment to using local resources.

Structural Integrity

Steel is an important component of the structure, providing strength and stability to the lookout point. It is designed to withstand extreme weather that can occur in the region. The combination of steel and tuff creates a balance, allowing the design to function properly while still respecting the environment around it.

Visitor Experience

The path leading to the crater’s center is designed with the visitor experience in mind. It is easy to navigate, allowing people to engage with the landscape. Strategic lookout points enhance the views, helping visitors fully enjoy their surroundings without obstructing the natural scenery.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability is a key aspect of the design, with a focus on materials that last a long time and can be reused. The construction process is efficient, aiming to reduce waste. This thoughtful approach aligns with contemporary practices that consider the environment, supporting the idea of responsible architecture in sensitive areas.

The lookout point features designs that provide unobstructed views, allowing visitors to take in the vast landscape while keeping a low profile in the natural setting.

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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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