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Basalt Stone Facade with Green Turf Roof and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Hospitality Space

Basalt Stone Facade with Green Turf Roof and Panoramic Views in a Sustainable Hospitality Space
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A distinctive basalt stone facade complemented by green turf roofs seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape, creating a sustainable hospitality space that prioritizes both environmental sensitivity and guest experience.
5 key facts about this project
01
A modular layout allows for flexible room configurations tailored to guest preferences.
02
The incorporation of natural turf roofs enhances thermal performance and aesthetics.
03
Large glass panels strategically positioned maximize views of the surrounding landscape.
04
Basalt stone sourced locally ensures harmony with the Icelandic geology.
05
Innovative use of timber in structural elements emphasizes sustainability and warmth.

### Overview

The Sel Hotel, situated in Iceland adjacent to notable pseudo craters, is designed to blend traditional Icelandic architectural elements with contemporary hospitality functions. The project's intent is to foster a connection to the local environment and cultural heritage while providing modern amenities conducive to guest comfort. Through its architectural expression, the Sel Hotel seeks to create a dialogue between historic forms and contemporary needs within a striking natural context.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

The selection of materials is a pivotal aspect, emphasizing sustainability and local sourcing. Key elements include basalt stone, which is locally extracted to establish a physical and visual connection with the landscape, embodying durability and permanence. Timber complements this material palette, utilized in roofing and internal structures, reflecting traditional building techniques while offering warmth and versatility. Grass turf is integrated into the green roofs, enhancing thermal insulation and promoting ecological harmony. Large glass panels are incorporated to maximize natural light and visual access to the surrounding vistas, thereby reinforcing indoor-outdoor connectivity.

### Spatial Organization

The architectural layout is meticulously conceptualized to facilitate varied user experiences through strategic spatial organization. The floor plan reveals a balanced arrangement of public and private areas, linked by corridors that are both functional and visually appealing. The design creates contrasting environments by transitioning from dimly lit corridors clad in basalt stone to brighter communal spaces, enriching the user experience. Distinct exterior volumes reference traditional forms while adapting to contemporary usage, allowing the hotel to resonate with its historical context while meeting modern expectations. The inclusion of viewing decks enhances guest interaction with the landscape, providing opportunities for appreciation of the natural surroundings.

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Enter an open architecture
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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Competition organisers

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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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