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 Stone Shelter With Glass Panels Seamlessly Integrating Into Natural Terrain

Authors:
Ádám Farkas, Alex Quintus, Péter Salavecz, Fruzsina Gölles
Volcanic Stone Shelter With Glass Panels Seamlessly Integrating Into Natural Terrain

Project in-detail

Defined by its angular glass façade and reinforced concrete structure, the design integrates seamlessly with the volcanic landscape while serving as an accessible visitor center for the surrounding cave environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to integrate with volcanic topography through an angular glass façade.
02
Utilizes reinforced concrete panels to enhance structural integrity and sustainability.
03
Incorporates extensive glazing for optimal natural light and landscape views.
04
Features an observation level that offers panoramic vistas of the surrounding terrain.
05
Landscape design includes local stone to minimize ecological impact and enhance aesthetics.

The Iceland Cave Tower is an architectural project that exemplifies a sensitive response to its natural surroundings. Designed to complement the unique geological features of Iceland’s volcanic landscape, the structure serves both an aesthetic and functional purpose. It is intended as a visitor center that enhances access to a naturally occurring cave while providing facilities for tourists and researchers interested in the region's geology.

The primary design focus was to create a seamless integration between the built form and the landscape. The architecture acknowledges the existing topography and employs materials that harmonize with the local environment. Its sharp, angular silhouette references the rugged mountains, creating a distinct presence while promoting a sense of continuity with the site's natural features.

Unique Design Approaches

One of the distinguishing characteristics of the Iceland Cave Tower is its use of glass reinforced concrete panels combined with extensive glazing. This choice of materials facilitates an open visual connection to the exterior, allowing natural light to penetrate deep into the interiors while minimizing the carbon footprint. The transparency of the design aids in merging indoor spaces with outdoor vistas, creating an immersive experience for visitors.

The building is organized into distinct functional zones, including public, semi-public, and private spaces, ensuring efficient flow and access. The ground floor serves as the main entry point, housing visitor services, a café, and information displays. These facilities are designed to orient visitors while providing them with comfort. The innovative layout includes a mezzanine that fosters interaction among visitors, while the upper observation level offers panoramic views, enhancing the overall experience of the site.

Functional Aspects and Details

In addition to its visitor-oriented facilities, the Iceland Cave Tower integrates sustainable design principles. The use of local stone in landscaping minimizes ecological impact, while advanced insulation techniques reduce energy consumption. Natural ventilation strategies are employed, promoting a healthy indoor environment that aligns with the project's ecological goals.

Architectural elements such as the angular façade and sloped roof not only contribute to the building’s visual identity but also serve practical functions. The roof design aids in shedding snow and rainwater, while the strategically placed openings optimize daylighting and views, allowing visitors to engage with the surrounding landscape actively.

For those interested in exploring the Iceland Cave Tower further, it is recommended to review the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs available. These resources provide deeper insights into the design principles and functional applications that make this project a noteworthy case study in contemporary architecture. The Iceland Cave Tower stands as an example of how architecture can coexist with nature while fulfilling critical visitor functions.

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
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