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Volcanic Rock and Timber Structure Overlooking Tectonic Fissures

Author:
Adhara Perez Diaz
Volcanic Rock and Timber Structure Overlooking Tectonic Fissures
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Constructed from volcanic rock and timber, the observation tower offers a unique perspective over tectonic fissures and thermal pools, enhancing visitor engagement in a captivating natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic rock for climate adaptation.
02
Timber interior enhances warmth and visitor comfort.
03
Pathways designed to guide engagement with geological features.
04
Offers panoramic views of the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates.
05
Integrates facilities without compromising the natural landscape.

The Iceland Cave Tower is located in a unique geological area between the Grjótagjá Caves in Iceland. The design aims to enhance visitor interaction while encouraging exploration of the natural thermal pools and fissures below. The overall concept focuses on creating a connection between the architecture and its striking environment, inviting people to engage with the landscape.

Architectural Concept

The design prioritizes exploration and encourages interaction through well-planned pathways. These pathways guide visitors across the site and help them appreciate the rugged terrain and thermal features in the area. The tower serves as a central point, allowing visitors to take in expansive views of the dramatic geological formations that characterize the landscape.

The Tower

The tower stands prominently above the ground, symbolizing a link between the North American and Eurasian tectonic plates. Its height provides a vantage point for visitors to engage with the surrounding natural beauty. As people ascend, they can observe the unique topography and better understand the geological processes at play in the region.

Functional Areas

Various functional spaces are integrated into the design to support the needs of visitors while ensuring minimal impact on the environment. Facilities such as resting areas and bathrooms are included, maintaining comfort and accessibility. This thoughtful inclusion enhances the visitor experience without overwhelming the natural setting.

Material Considerations

The materials chosen for this design improve its connection with the landscape. The use of volcanic rock for the tower's exterior reflects the local geology, providing a visual link to the surroundings. Interior spaces are proposed to feature timber, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. This combination of materials helps create an environment that resonates with the natural world.

The design culminates in a thoughtful blend of architecture and landscape, where every element contributes to enhancing the visitor experience while respecting the unique geological and cultural narratives of the site.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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Competition organisers

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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