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Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Creating Symbiosis with Icelandic Landscape

Charred Wooden Shingles and Expansive Glazing Creating Symbiosis with Icelandic Landscape
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Employing charred wooden shingles and expansive glazing, the design seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape while serving as a multifunctional retreat for visitors seeking connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic continuity with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels to provide structural stability and energy efficiency.
03
Features a bent A-frame design that optimizes natural light and panoramic views.
04
Includes multi-functional spaces adaptable to various visitor needs and activities.
05
Designed to harmonize with the rugged Icelandic terrain, fostering a strong connection to nature.

# Fragmenta Caeli Architectural Design Report

## Overview

Fragmenta Caeli is located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, an area distinguished by its dramatic landscape and challenging climatic conditions. The design seeks to create a dialogue between the built environment and the sky, drawing inspiration from both the constellations and the natural formations within the local topography. This project is conceptualized not only as an architectural installation but also as a cultural landmark that engages visitors with its surroundings and encourages introspection and rejuvenation in a stark yet beautiful environment.

## Spatial Composition

The project comprises several interconnected structures, each uniquely designed to respond to the existing landscape. The varying heights, angles, and orientations of the buildings are strategically employed to mirror the natural forms of the terrain. Among these, the **Celestial Spire** serves as a focal point, directing attention skyward and symbolizing aspiration. The **Casiopeia** structure provides a refreshment area, featuring extensive glazing that maximizes natural light and offers expansive views of the surrounding landscape. The **Andromeda** area functions as a multi-purpose space for community gathering and rest, while the **Perseus** structure addresses practical needs for equipment storage and activities, all while maintaining aesthetic coherence with the overall design.

## Material Specifications

The selection of materials reflects a commitment to sustainability and regional relevance. Local wood is predominantly used for its warmth and connection to traditional Icelandic architecture, while concrete elements provide structural stability and thermal mass. Glass is integrated throughout the design to enhance natural lighting and visual engagement with the landscape. Steel components offer durability and a contemporary aesthetic, serving both structural and decorative purposes. Additionally, energy-efficient insulation materials have been employed to ensure comfort within the interior spaces against the Icelandic climate.

Interior spaces are thoughtfully planned to foster a sense of warmth and hospitality. Features such as fire pits promote communal gathering, while strategically placed viewing decks enhance the visitor experience, allowing for uninterrupted views of the northern skies. The flexibility of room configurations accommodates various activities, ensuring that the spaces can adapt to diverse visitor needs.

Fragmenta Caeli epitomizes a responsive architectural approach that harmonizes with the natural environment, enhancing the wilderness experience while providing functional and communal spaces for visitors. The integration of architectural form and landscape fosters a genuine connection between occupants and their surroundings.

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Enter an open architecture
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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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Competition organisers

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.

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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