Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Volcanic Facades and Reflective Atriums in an Icelandic Landscape

Author:
D lee Carruthers
Volcanic Facades and Reflective Atriums in an Icelandic Landscape

Project in-detail

Crafted with volcanic facades and a light-filled atrium, the design harmonizes with the Icelandic landscape while providing a multifunctional space for visitors to explore the Grjotagja caves and observe natural phenomena.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to reflect ancient Runestones, the facades integrate cultural and geological identity.
02
The atrium captures varying natural light, enhancing the interior atmosphere throughout the day.
03
Visitor pathways are carefully constructed from locally sourced basalt stone to minimize ecological disruption.
04
Viewing stations along the stairs provide opportunities for contemplation of the surrounding landscape.
05
A bridge over tectonic plates features a digital display tracking geological movements.

The Iceland Cave Tower features a modern design that aligns with the distinctive landscape of Iceland, particularly the Grjotagja caves. This structure serves multiple functions, including spaces for a café, lobby, and offices. It aims to enhance the experience for visitors and locals. The design draws inspiration from ancient Runestones, reflecting cultural heritage in contemporary architectural form.

Facade Design
The building displays two unique facades that highlight the contrasts in the region. The south facade is characterized by its light, reflective quality, reminiscent of iceflows and Iceland spar. This design creates a visual connection with the environment. In contrast, the north facade presents a volcanic look that relates to the area’s geological features. This dual approach not only contributes to the building's appearance but also symbolizes the relationship between day and night along the east-west axis.

Interior Experience
Central to the building is a full-height atrium that plays a critical role in its layout. This space allows for vertical movement and provides access to observation decks. The atrium captures natural light, transitioning from soft illumination to stronger beams throughout the day. This design choice fosters a connection between the occupants and the natural surroundings, enhancing the overall atmosphere.

Visitor Interaction
The journey within the building is designed for engagement and learning. A staircase leads to the Skywalk, with carefully positioned viewing stations that invite visitors to pause and reflect on the landscape. Opportunities to observe the Northern Lights deepen the connection between people and the environment, creating a memorable experience.

Ecological Integration
The surrounding landscape is carefully maintained, featuring paths made from basalt stone, wood, and steel. These walkways are designed to limit disruption to the ecosystem while allowing exploration of the natural features. Additionally, a bridge crosses the rift between tectonic plates and includes a display that tracks geological movement. This element further connects the structure to its environment, prompting interest in the Earth's natural processes.

The design culminates in an architecture that reflects cultural significance and ecological sensitivity. The atrium stands as a focal point, inviting natural light and linking the interior experience to the expansive landscape of Iceland.

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
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3
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