Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Biomimetic Design Featuring Etfe Cladding and Natural Light Integration in Glacial Landscape Shelter

Biomimetic Design Featuring Etfe Cladding and Natural Light Integration in Glacial Landscape Shelter
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing ETFE cladding and a biomimetic design approach, the structure harmonizes with its glacial landscape while providing a versatile space for visitor engagement and interaction with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes ETFE cladding to enhance light transmission while resisting harsh weather.
02
Integrates a biomimetic design inspired by glacial erosion patterns.
03
Incorporates accessible pathways that encourage visitor interaction with the landscape.
04
Constructed with layered assemblies for adaptability and future modifications.
05
Features panoramic viewing areas that highlight natural scenery throughout the seasons.

### Overview

Located within a glacial landscape characterized by snow and ice, the project embodies a harmonious relationship with its natural surroundings. Designed with the intent to reflect the dynamic processes of glacial erosion, the structure serves as both a functional shelter and an interactive space, allowing visitors to experience the ongoing changes in the environment. The narrative woven through the design captures the essence of water, snow, and ice, fostering a connection between users and nature.

### Spatial Organization and Accessibility

The layout strategically organizes spaces to facilitate an inclusive experience for diverse users, including visitors, skiers, and hikers. Access points are designed for barrier-free movement, ensuring ease of navigation throughout the site. The configuration of internal spaces prioritizes visibility and accessibility while thoughtfully responding to the site's contours, enhancing the overall connection to the geological setting.

### Form and Materiality

The architectural form features undulating shapes that echo the organic contours of ice formations, effectively merging aesthetics and functionality. This design approach not only optimizes views of the landscape but also channels the flow dynamics associated with glacial melting. Key materials include ETFE, which provides durability and light transmission while minimizing energy consumption, and wax, initially utilized in the modeling phase to simulate internal water flow. The project also employs Vekro fasteners for efficient assembly and disassembly, underscoring the commitment to practicality and adaptability in construction methods.

### Environmental Considerations

Incorporating principles of biomimicry, the design reflects natural patterns and processes that inform the architectural identity. This approach emphasizes ecological consciousness and fosters a dialogue between built and natural environments. The building's adaptability to varying climatic conditions supports year-round use, with its visual and structural elements shifting in response to seasonal changes, thereby deepening the integration with the surrounding ecosystem.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
new
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 8 July 2026
new
The Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 July 2026
Mujassam Watan 
Urban Sculpture Challenge #8

Design iconic urban sculptures for the prestigious Mujassam Watan competition and compete for 50,000 €

50,000 € PRIZE project COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 23 July 2026
new
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 29 July 2026
new
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 30 July 2026
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 16 September 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #8 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 18 June 2026
new
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 18 June 2026
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 2 July 2026
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2026

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

100,000€ Prize / 2026 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 9 July 2026
Underbridge #2

Design housing in underutilized bridge spaces

Affordable Housing Edition #20 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 16 July 2026
MICROHOME 2026

Design a new concept of small-scale home and share a prize fund of 100,000€

100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #11 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 September 2026

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy