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Visitor Center Featuring Reinforced Rammed Earth and Natural Light Integration Amidst Iceland's Landscape

Authors:
Femke Verheyen, Yves Dupont
Visitor Center Featuring Reinforced Rammed Earth and Natural Light Integration Amidst Iceland's Landscape

Project in-detail

Nestled within Iceland's dramatic terrain, this visitor center showcases a harmonious blend of reinforced rammed earth and expansive glass, inviting visitors to engage with the landscape while utilizing geothermal energy for sustainability.
5 key facts about this project
01
- The visitor center is constructed using reinforced rammed earth, providing excellent thermal mass and insulation suited for Iceland's climate.
02
A geothermal heating system is integrated, utilizing local resources to maintain comfortable interior temperatures year-round.
03
The design features expansive glass panels designed to maximize natural light while framing views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
04
Pathways are designed with careful consideration to minimize ecological impact, promoting sustainable navigation through the delicate terrain.
05
Interior finishes include locally sourced wood, enhancing the structure’s connection to the natural environment while ensuring a warm, inviting atmosphere.
The architectural project, known as the Iceland Cave Tower, embodies a thoughtful integration of design and natural environment, situated within the rugged Icelandic landscape. This project represents more than just a physical structure; it serves as an exploration hub and a point of connection between visitors and the unique geological features of Iceland. The function of the tower is multifaceted, providing a space for observation, education, and communal gathering, all while promoting an appreciation for the surrounding natural beauty.

At the heart of the project is a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. The Iceland Cave Tower is designed with a focus on harmony with its surroundings, using materials that resonate with the earth, such as reinforced rammed earth and pigmented insulation concrete. These choices not only provide structural integrity but also minimize visual impact on the landscape. Strategically placed glass elements enhance the visitor experience, allowing abundant natural light while framing breathtaking views of Iceland's diverse terrain. The thoughtful incorporation of wood in interior spaces creates a warm atmosphere, contrasting with the starkness often found in volcanic settings.

The layout of the Iceland Cave Tower is intentionally organized to facilitate movement and interaction among visitors. The ground floor serves as an entrance and welcome area, providing essential services and information for guests. This level is designed for ease of access and comfort, acknowledging the varied needs of visitors. As guests ascend to the second floor, they find a lounge area that encourages relaxation and social interaction, complemented by expansive windows that foster a sense of connection to the outside environment. The upper levels culminate in a panoramic observation deck that invites guests to take in the breathtaking vistas, ensuring that the experience is about more than just the structure itself.

An important aspect of the design is the careful consideration of pathways and connections, which were developed to integrate the tower seamlessly into the local landscape. Bridges and ramps provide navigable and environmentally conscious routes that guide visitors through the terrain, allowing for a deeper appreciation of the surroundings without causing disruption to the fragile ecosystem. The presence of landing platforms enhances the journey, inviting moments of reflection and engagement with the natural world.

Unique design approaches of the Iceland Cave Tower include the emphasis on a cave-inspired aesthetic. This design theme resonates not only visually but also conceptually, offering an experience that evokes the textures and qualities found in nature’s own formations. The integration of geothermal energy into the building’s infrastructure demonstrates a forward-thinking commitment to sustainability, using local resources to ensure efficiency and comfort within the structure.

Overall, the Iceland Cave Tower is a thoughtful architectural endeavor that emphasizes a respectful relationship with the environment while providing functional spaces tailored to meet the needs of its users. The combination of natural materials, innovative design solutions, and mindful spatial organization makes this project a notable example of contemporary architecture that prioritizes user experience and environmental harmony. To gain deeper insights into the architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas that shape this project, readers are encouraged to explore the project presentation further.
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Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

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
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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