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Volcanic Rock and Timber Structure Overlooking Tectonic Fissures

Author:
Adhara Perez diaz
Volcanic Rock and Timber Structure Overlooking Tectonic Fissures

Project in-detail

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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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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