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White Steel Structure Overlooking Tectonic Landscape

Author:
Daniella Leal
White Steel Structure Overlooking Tectonic Landscape

Project in-detail

Situated along the boundary of tectonic plates, the structure combines white steel and wood elements to create a visitor center that enhances engagement with the surrounding geothermal landscape while providing spaces for relaxation and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Unique design reflects the boundary of American and European tectonic plates.
02
Upper level includes interactive climbing walls and slides for visitor engagement.
03
Lower level offers a welcoming space for relaxation and hot beverages.
04
Exterior features a distinctive rectangular form that blends with the landscape.
05
Materials include white steel and wood, enhancing durability and warmth.

The Iceland Cave Tower stands as a thoughtful response to the growing number of tourists visiting the unique geological landscape of Iceland, specifically the Grjótagjá caves. The tower draws on the historical concept of mead halls from Early Medieval Scandinavia, creating a space that invites community and interaction. It aims to integrate with its setting while offering a flexible and engaging experience for visitors.

Conceptual Framework

The design celebrates the essence of the mead hall, reimagined for contemporary use. It seeks to create a welcoming and functional environment that exists in harmony with the natural world. The rectangular shape of the tower provides multiple levels, each serving different functions while maintaining a cohesive appearance that respects the landscape.



Interactive Features

Visitors to the upper level are treated to expansive views of the dramatic Icelandic scenery. With its uneven floors, slides, and climbing walls, this area encourages exploration and play. The focus is on making the visit an engaging experience, one that prompts people to interact with the architecture and the environment around them.



Restorative Spaces

The lower level of the tower captures the spirit of the caves, offering a cozy space for visitors to relax and enjoy hot drinks. Designed for comfort, it becomes a refuge from the cold Icelandic climate, emphasizing warmth and hospitality in an otherwise rugged landscape.



Geographical Context

This tower is strategically located along the divide of the American and European tectonic plates. This geological significance is reflected in the design, where distinct facades draw attention to the areas of exploration. This connection between the architecture and the landscape enriches visitors' understanding of the site's unique features.



The use of white steel on the exterior and wood on the interior further enhances the building's character. These materials allow the tower to present a modern appearance while ensuring a friendly atmosphere. The design encourages visitors to appreciate both the architecture and the surrounding natural beauty.

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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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