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Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Formations in a Volcanic Landscape Community Hub

Author:
Pablo Fuertes
Charred Wooden Shingles and Concrete Formations in a Volcanic Landscape Community Hub
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Utilizing charred wooden shingles and robust concrete, the design seamlessly integrates with Iceland's volcanic landscape to create a versatile community hub that fosters cultural engagement and connection to nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced durability and fire resistance.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to reduce carbon footprint and promote sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that aids in passive heating and cooling.
04
Designed to blend seamlessly into the volcanic landscape, enhancing topographical continuity.
05
Offers flexible interior spaces to accommodate diverse community activities.

The architectural project "Perforating Lights" is situated in the unique volcanic landscape of Iceland. It combines functionality with a strong connection to its environmental context. Designed to serve as an information center and cultural hub, the architecture facilitates both public engagement and private contemplation. The structure ingeniously integrates with its surroundings while offering versatile spaces that cater to various user activities.

The project includes a main hall for gatherings, an exhibition area to showcase local art and geological features, and a coffee shop designed for relaxation. The building utilizes natural materials, with significant use of concrete, steel, glass, and natural stone. Each material is carefully selected not only for durability but also for its aesthetic qualities, ensuring a cohesive visual language that resonates with the Icelandic topography.

The architectural design emphasizes the manipulation of light, with strategic openings that create dynamic effects of light and shadow across the internal spaces. This approach enhances the user experience, allowing occupants to engage with the changing natural light throughout the day. The interplay between indoor and outdoor environments is a significant consideration, creating a seamless transition from the building to the landscape.

Unique Design Approaches

The project distinguishes itself through its focus on sustainability and environmental integration. Rather than imposing a conventional structure onto the landscape, "Perforating Lights" operates as a natural extension of its surroundings. The adaptive use of local materials minimizes the ecological footprint and promotes the creation of a site-specific architecture.

The layout of the project is designed to foster a sense of community and belonging. Spaces are interconnected yet serve distinct functions, allowing for simultaneous activities without disruption. The design encourages public interaction while also providing areas for solitude, thus accommodating a wide range of user needs.

Spatial relationships are also a key aspect of the design, with the arrangement of spaces reflecting the natural contours of the site. Large windows and skylights are strategically placed to enhance views of the volcanic landscape, encouraging a connection between the building's occupants and the environment.

Architectural Design and Features

The architectural details of “Perforating Lights” include variations in ceiling heights, textures, and finishes that contribute to a rich sensory experience. The main hall, with its high ceilings and expansive windows, serves as the focal point of the building and a multi-functional space. The exhibition zone is carefully curated to enhance the display of artworks, incorporating natural light in a manner that complements the artistic intent.

Sustainability features are embedded within the design. The project is oriented to maximize energy efficiency, with considerations for passive heating and cooling. Green roofs and wall systems may be employed to promote biodiversity and integrate the building further into its environment.

In summary, the architectural project "Perforating Lights" offers a comprehensive examination of how built environments can respond to and enhance their natural contexts. For those interested in a deeper understanding of its architectural plans, sections, designs, and ideas, exploring the project presentation will provide valuable insights into its unique approach and execution.

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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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