Get inspired!

16,979 architecture projects

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

Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form A Mindful Visitor Centre Amidst Geothermal Springs

Authors:
Gerrit Schilder, Hill Scholte, Hallgrimur Fridgeirsson, Yibin Li
Charred Shingles and Cross-Laminated Timber Form A Mindful Visitor Centre Amidst Geothermal Springs

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and cross-laminated timber, the Visitor Centre harmonizes with geothermal springs, providing a space for reflection and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles, the exterior enhances durability and aligns with local fire safety standards.
02
The use of cross-laminated timber panels promotes rapid assembly while ensuring structural integrity.
03
Viewing platforms are integrated into the design, providing immersive perspectives of the surrounding landscape.
04
Geothermal springs directly inform the site layout, facilitating an interactive visitor experience with natural elements.
05
The bent A-frame design minimizes land disturbance while maximizing natural light within the interior spaces.
The architectural project "Place and Time" is designed as a dual structure that emphasizes the integration of built form with natural landscape. Comprising a Visitor Centre and a Tower Bridge, the project aims to enhance the visitor experience at a site characterized by geothermal springs and striking geological formations. The approach focuses on functionality, sustainability, and the promotion of mindfulness.

The Visitor Centre serves as an informational hub, featuring a café and restroom facilities. Its design incorporates timber and concrete materials that align with the rugged terrain, ensuring both stability and aesthetic coherence. The Tower Bridge consists of two cantilevered sections, allowing visitors to traverse between geological features while offering observational viewpoints for the surrounding landscape.

Exploration of Nature and Mindfulness

A key aspect of this project is its commitment to fostering a connection between visitors and the environment. The architectural forms are intentionally designed to encourage contemplation. The structure's angular profiles reflect the natural contours, creating a visual dialogue with the landscape that supports the idea of mindfulness. This design decision allows for meaningful engagement with the geothermal features, enhancing the overall visitor experience.

Sustainable Design and Material Choices

The project utilizes locally sourced sustainable materials to reduce environmental impact. Timber is employed in the construction of the Visitor Centre, providing a warm aesthetic while promoting sustainability. The use of engineered concrete ensures structural integrity and durability. Insulation systems tailored for the climate are incorporated, alongside energy-efficient triple-glazed windows and renewable energy solutions such as solar panels.

Visitors are invited to explore architectural plans and sections that demonstrate the thoughtful integration of indoor and outdoor spaces and the seamless interaction between the buildings and their environment. For a deeper understanding of the architectural designs and ideas behind "Place and Time," it is recommended to review the project presentation. This will provide insights into the unique aspects of the design and its functionality within the natural context.
Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #2
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Denver Affordable Housing Challenge
Affordable Housing Series 19th Edition
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #4
MICROHOME
MICROHOME
100,000 € Prize Fund / Kingpsan Edition #10
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

Competition organisers

The 10th edition of the MICROHOME architecture competition invites architects and designers from around the world to explore the possibilities of compact, sustainable living. Hosted by Buildner in collaboration with Kingspan and Hapi Homes, this special edition challenges participants to design an off-grid, modular microhome for a young professional couple, with a maximum floor area of 25 m². Designs should prioritize innovation, efficiency, and real-world feasibility. 

A total prize fund of 100,000 € will be awarded, including three main prizes, the Kingspan Award, and the Hapi Homes Award, which will grant 15,000 € and lead to the construction of the selected design. The final registration deadline is September 25, 2025, and winners will be announced on Decebmer 9, 2025. For full competition details and submission guidelines, visit microhome.info.

Microhome

Design a new small-scale home concept in the 10th edition of MICROHOME — 100,000 € prize + construction

100,000 € PRIZE FUND / KINGPSAN EDITION #10 IDEAS COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 € + Potential realisation
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 22 May 2025
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 16,979 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