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Weathered Steel Observation Tower Melding into Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Kiril Shopov
Weathered Steel Observation Tower Melding into Iceland's Volcanic Landscape

Project in-detail

Blending weathered steel and treated wood within a rugged volcanic landscape, the design creates an immersive visitor center that enhances access to Iceland's unique geological features.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with weathered steel to complement the surrounding volcanic terrain.
02
Elevated walkways designed to minimize environmental impact and promote accessibility.
03
Large glass panels enhance natural lighting while providing panoramic landscape views.
04
Integrated modular decking system facilitates easy maintenance and adaptability.
05
Educational signage incorporated throughout to inform visitors about geological features.

The Iceland Cave Tower project embodies a strategic architectural design intended for visitor engagement with the surrounding geological features of Iceland. This project serves as a visitor center that enhances accessibility to nearby caves, providing insights into the natural landscape while maintaining respect for its environment. The design prioritizes functionality, sustainability, and educational opportunities.

The tower is constructed vertically, acting as both an observation point and a landmark, while a series of elevated walkways weave through the landscape, connecting various points of interest. The integration of these elements allows visitors to experience the terrain without disrupting its natural state.

Unique Integration of Natural Elements
A key aspect of the Iceland Cave Tower is its thoughtful integration with the natural surroundings. The vertical structure contrasts with the horizontal boardwalks, creating a dynamic interplay that reflects the geological characteristics of the site. The use of weathered steel in the façades complements the rocky landscape, ensuring that the architecture does not dominate but rather harmonizes with its environment.

The walkways are designed using a modular decking system that promotes ease of maintenance while minimizing site disruption. This design approach fosters a relationship with the landscape, allowing flora and fauna to thrive alongside the constructed elements. Signage and educational opportunities enrich the visitor experience, offering insights into the geological significance of Iceland’s unique features.

Architectural Materials and Functional Design
The architecture incorporates a variety of materials that serve both aesthetic and functional purposes. Weathered steel is the primary material for the tower façade, providing durability against the elements while visually integrating with the surroundings. Treated wood is employed for the elevated walkways and flooring, ensuring comfort for visitors and a warmer tactile experience. Large glass windows allow natural light to illuminate the interior, creating a connection between the users and the extensive views of the landscape.

Concrete underpins the structural elements, ensuring stability and longevity. The layout includes gathering areas for reflection and interaction, as well as strategically positioned observation decks to enhance the visitor experience. The combination of these elements results in a cohesive architectural design that prioritizes visitor engagement while respecting the integrity of the environment.

For further insights into the design and engineering of the Iceland Cave Tower project, readers are encouraged to explore the architectural plans, sections, and designs detailed in the project presentation. Understanding these architectural ideas will provide a comprehensive look at how this project achieves its objectives through a balance of form, function, and environmental harmony.

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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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