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Vertical Tower Framing Fault Line Views in Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Alex Touayev, Léa Salamé
Vertical Tower Framing Fault Line Views in Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

A vertical tower positioned within a prominent fault line offers panoramic views of the surrounding Icelandic landscape, enhancing visitor interaction and exploration in a thoughtfully arranged space that includes public and private functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
A tower designed to rise vertically from a fault line, enhancing the geological characteristics of the site.
02
Caves within the fault provide a serene atmosphere for visitors, encouraging reflection and connection with nature.
03
Public and private spaces are thoughtfully arranged to facilitate interaction while respecting the surrounding landscape.
04
Strategic viewpoints offer varying perspectives of the Icelandic terrain and the geological features of the fault.
05
The architecture emphasizes a cohesive materiality that aligns with the natural context, promoting sensory engagement.

The design project located in Iceland is closely tied to the landscape defined by a significant fault line. This natural feature serves as a central element that shapes the layout and experience within the space. The aim is to create an “in-between” area that merges with the surroundings. The result is a thoughtful relationship between the built environment and the terrain.

Integration of the Fault

The fault is more than just a division in the land; it drives the design's concept. Visitors are invited to explore this unique formation, which fosters a quiet environment conducive to reflection. Shadows and light play within the rocky confines of the fault, while the caves provide an inviting atmosphere where people can experience silence and calm.

Verticality and the Tower

A notable tower stands within the landscape, emphasizing the fault's characteristics. Its vertical position calls attention to the upward movement, guiding visitors to notice the space from above. The tower acts as a clear marker against the backdrop of the existing topography. It engages individuals with the natural features surrounding it, reinforcing the connection between the architecture and the land.

Spatial Organization

The layout carefully considers how visitors will navigate the space. Key areas include an information stand, waiting areas, toilets, storage, offices, a café, and various viewing points. Each function is placed with attention to accessibility and interaction, enabling guests to engage with both the architecture and the landscape. The arrangement fosters a meaningful exploration of the site.

Materiality and Sensory Experience

While specific materials are not mentioned in detail, there is an emphasis on unity in color and shape. The goal is to create a cohesive experience that aligns with the natural environment. This approach enhances visitors' sensory engagement, encouraging them to connect with the landscape's distinct characteristics.

From the top of the tower, panoramic views reveal the features of the surrounding area, framing the fault as a key component that invites further exploration.

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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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