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THE GRJÓTAGJÁ OBSERVATORY
COMPETITION ICELAND CAVE TOWER
TYPE: CULTURAL
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SITE: GRJÓTAGJÁ
PARTNER: MINGZE TANG (3D MODELLING)
INDIVIDUAL: DIAGRAM, PLAN, SECTION, RENDER, ALL DRAWINGS
Iceland is located on the Mid-Atlantic Ridge. The entire island was formed by the accumulation of material from the upper mantle that was spilled over the years by the Mid-Ocean Ridge Rift. This molten lava, when encountered by seawater and cold air, rapidly cools to form a wide variety of basaltic rocks. These varied geological and geomorphological features provide a powerful visual experience for visitors.
The project is located next to the Grjótagjá Cave. For us it is not only the border between Europe and North America, but also the profile of Iceland's geology for thousands of years. We felt it was important to convey to visitors through this project the information that makes up the special geology of Iceland. The visitor center, while providing viewing platforms and relaxation spaces, collects local stone to represent the characteristics of Iceland's geological soil in its various layers.
The visitors will be able to experience the unique charm of Iceland's geology through changes in touch, color, and light and shadow.
Through the overall plan, cairns also expresses the blurred boundary between man-made buildings and nature. Rock and earth are not only components of the building, but also the meaning of its existence. It is a projection of the Icelandic geology and landscape on the building. The new cairns will illustrate the aesthetics of Icelandic geology in more detail.
