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A Volcanic Retreat Lodge with Dynamic Spatial Flow

Author:
Serge Atallah
A Volcanic Retreat Lodge with Dynamic Spatial Flow
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Lava rocks and corten steel create a dialogue with the volcanic landscape in a circular lodge designed for visitor engagement and immersion in nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Lava rocks are integrated into the façade, reflecting local geology.
02
The circular plan encourages fluid movement and varied perspectives.
03
Corten steel adds durability while harmonizing with the natural landscape.
04
The design is inspired by a phylogenetic tree, symbolizing the connection with nature.
05
Double-skin façades enhance energy efficiency and sustainability.

Lava Lodge is proposed in the captivating landscape of Dimmuborgir, Iceland, where it invites visitors to experience the surrounding nature. The Lodge emphasizes engagement with its environment that focuses on views and spatial progression. It serves as a place where the natural and built environments come together harmoniously, allowing people to connect with the volcanic features of the area.

Conceptual Framework

The design draws inspiration from the idea of a phylogenetic tree, symbolizing the relationship between humans and nature. This concept leads to the use of a circular plan that fosters a sense of unity and flow. The shape allows visitors to move through the space and discover various perspectives of the striking landscape. Each view becomes an invitation to appreciate the surrounding geology in a meaningful way.

Spatial Organization

At the heart of Lava Lodge is a central point that offers 360-degree views of the landscape. This design choice positions the building as a landmark within Dimmuborgir, emphasizing the visual connection with the local volcanoes. Instead of competing with the natural features, the Lodge complements them. The arrangement of spaces encourages exploration, inviting visitors to experience a journey through the different environments as they transition from inside to outside.

Material Considerations

Material choices play a supportive role in the overall design, focusing on local relevance. The façades are crafted from lava rocks, reflecting the volcanic heritage of the region and enhancing the connection to the landscape. Corten steel is also used, accentuating visual continuity amid the rugged terrain. These materials not only help define the structure's appearance but also align it closely with the natural context.

Ecological Integration

Lava Lodge incorporates sustainable practices, evident in elements like double-skin façades and a vegetative roof. These features serve to reduce energy consumption and minimize the building's impact on the environment. The design reflects a commitment to ecological principles, showing that it is possible for built structures to coexist with the natural world without disruption.

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

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The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 is an international architecture competition dedicated to recognizing and celebrating the value of unrealized architectural designs. It invites architects, designers, and students worldwide to submit visionary projects that have not yet been constructed, highlighting the power of ideas and the creativity behind the design process. By focusing on unbuilt work, the competition aims to bring forward concepts that shape the future of architecture and push the boundaries of the profession. 

Participants can compete in three categories based on project scale: Small Wonders (up to 100 m²), Medium Marvels (101–999 m²), and Large Visions (over 1,000 m²). Each category winner will receive €20,000, and additional prizes include honorable mentions, student awards, and a special Best Presentation Award. Winning projects will gain significant international exposure through Buildner’s publicity campaign and a feature article on ArchDaily, providing a unique opportunity to showcase creative ideas to a global audience. 

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025 encourages entrants to submit any type of unbuilt project, from conceptual visions to detailed designs, celebrating bold innovation without the constraints of realization. Important deadlines: registration closes on October 30, 2025; submissions are due by November 20, 2025; winners will be announced on December 17, 2025.

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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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