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Cave Tower Featuring Timber Climbing Courtyard and Geological Observation

Authors:
Mohamed Gamal, Moaaz Elhosseny, Omar Elsafwani
Cave Tower Featuring Timber Climbing Courtyard and Geological Observation
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The cave tower's timber climbing courtyard embraces the geological fissures of Iceland's landscape, offering visitors a unique vantage point to explore the surrounding natural beauty and observe the geological formations.
5 key facts about this project
01
Cave tower designed to harmonize with geological fissures.
02
Timber climbing courtyard enhances visitor interaction with the structure.
03
Elevated sections maintain unobstructed views of surrounding landscapes.
04
Custom timber modular grid ensures lightweight and sustainable construction.
05
Geothermal energy potential integrated within the building's design.

"The Upside Down" is an architectural design that creates a relationship between structure and landscape. Set in a location marked by significant geological features, it features a cave tower that serves both as a viewpoint and a destination for visitors. The design aims to enhance the experience of the natural environment, encouraging exploration and interaction with the surrounding landforms.

CIRCULATION AND ACCESS

The design incorporates two main ways for visitors to move through the space. One option is a continuous ramp leading to an observation dock, making it accessible for everyone. The second choice involves a climbing path built into the cave tower, adding an adventurous element to the experience. This climbing area allows visitors to engage more deeply with the cave-like structure and connect with the geology of the site.

SPATIAL DYNAMICS

The building is divided into two blocks, representing the geological separation found in the area. This division creates interesting spatial relationships that offer different experiences at each level. Elevated sections of the tower are designed to maintain clear views of the surrounding landscape. Sightlines to landmarks such as the Hervfjall volcano and Maylatain lake are preserved, enhancing visitors' appreciation of the region's natural beauty.

STRUCTURAL INNOVATION

The choice of a customized timber modular grid for the structure supports both sustainability and design flexibility. This system allows for the use of smaller, lighter components, making construction more efficient. Choosing wood aligns with modern efforts to use environmentally friendly materials, strengthening the project's connection to its surroundings.

The design also incorporates environmental strategies that address the site's geological context. High annual humidity levels create opportunities for using atmospheric water generation and exploring geothermal energy. These elements reinforce the building's fit within the local ecosystem.

At the heart of "The Upside Down" is an invitation for visitors to explore a compelling narrative with the earth. As they ascend through the cave tower, they are surrounded by deep views of the dramatic Icelandic landscape, resulting in a memorable experience of place and nature.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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