Get inspired!

16,544 architecture projects

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

Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facades Elevate Research Hub by Great Salt Lake

Authors:
Emily Daybell, Connor Hillman
Charred Wood Shingles and Glass Facades Elevate Research Hub by Great Salt Lake

Project in-detail

With charred wood shingles that blend harmoniously into the landscape, this research hub utilizes expansive glass facades to create a seamless dialogue between the interior and the unique ecology of the Great Salt Lake, serving as a vital center for water conservation and education.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for both aesthetic appeal and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to enhance structural integrity while reducing environmental impact.
03
Features large glass facades that reflect the natural landscape of the Great Salt Lake.
04
Design includes a bent A-frame structure, maximizing space efficiency and visual connection to surroundings.
05
Landscaping integrates native flora to promote biodiversity and minimize water usage.
The Salt Tower is an architectural project that exemplifies a commitment to addressing environmental challenges, particularly relating to water conservation in the context of the Great Salt Lake in Utah. This design represents not only an intervention in the landscape but also a symbol of awareness and research dedicated to the pressing issues surrounding water scarcity. The architecture is conceived as a multifunctional center focused on global water research, providing critical resources for scientists, educators, and the public, thereby fostering a collective effort towards sustainability and environmental stewardship.

The primary function of the Salt Tower is to serve as a research hub and community engagement space, where interdisciplinary dialogues surrounding water issues can take place. By integrating laboratories, public exhibition areas, and conference spaces, the design facilitates collaboration among various stakeholders, promoting education and outreach initiatives aimed at increasing public awareness about water conservation methods. The tower stands as a focal point for research efforts, striving to influence policy and promote sustainable practices that can mitigate the adverse impacts of water scarcity.

Key elements of the Salt Tower include its distinctive architectural form, which ascends upward in a manner reminiscent of natural landscapes. This vertical design not only optimizes the utilization of limited land space but also symbolizes hope in the face of ecological challenges. The stepped sections of the tower echo the nearby mountain range, creating a seamless connection between the architecture and the surrounding environment. Large glass facades are an integral part of the design, allowing natural light to filter into the interior while reflecting the picturesque views of the Great Salt Lake, reinforcing the symbiotic relationship between the built form and its natural context.

The materiality of the Salt Tower reflects a strong commitment to sustainability. The structure employs a combination of glass and steel, both known for their durability and modern aesthetic appeal. The expansive use of glass enhances transparency and creates a dialogue with the beautiful landscape outside, while steel frameworks provide necessary structural support while allowing open, flexible interior layouts conducive to collaborative work. This choice of materials not only meets practical requirements but also aligns with the project’s overarching goal of environmental sustainability.

The base of the tower features a dynamic canopy that creates shaded areas, augmenting the usability of outdoor spaces surrounding the structure. This design element promotes comfort for visitors and integrates well with the local climate, showcasing thoughtful responses to environmental conditions. Additionally, an observation deck located at the top of the tower allows for panoramic views of the Great Salt Lake, effectively engaging visitors and encouraging a deeper appreciation of the ecological landscape.

One of the most compelling aspects of the Salt Tower lies in its focus on public engagement. By prioritizing community access and involvement, the project aims to raise awareness about the importance of water conservation and ecological preservation. On-site exhibitions, educational programs, and outreach initiatives designed for the public will cultivate understanding and facilitate conversations about the significance of water resources in the region and beyond. Furthermore, the landscaping around the tower incorporates native flora, contributing to biodiversity while minimizing water usage through local plant selections.

The Salt Tower emerges as a thoughtful architectural solution that adeptly navigates multiple roles—research center, educational facility, and community hub. The project is distinctive not just for its striking form and intentional material choices, but for its fundamental goal of fostering collaboration and raising awareness about water conservation. To explore the architectural plans, architectural sections, and architectural designs involved in this project, readers are encouraged to delve deeper into the Salt Tower presentation for enlightening insights into its design and purpose. Engaging with the architectural ideas and detailed descriptions of the project will provide a richer understanding of its significance and potential impact on future water conservation initiatives.
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 16544 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