Get inspired!

17,249 architecture projects

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

Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Visitor Experience in Geothermal Tower Integration

Authors:
Paul Kelly, Gary Lysaght
Charred Wooden Shingles Enhance Visitor Experience in Geothermal Tower Integration

Project in-detail

Constructed with charred wooden shingles and featuring a geothermal heating system, the tower integrates seamlessly into its landscape while serving as a multifunctional space for visitor engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with charred wooden shingles for enhanced weather resistance and aesthetic cohesion with the landscape.
02
Incorporates cross-laminated timber panels, providing structural strength while minimizing carbon footprint.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing airflow and natural light throughout the interior spaces.
04
Utilizes a geothermal heating system, ensuring year-round temperature control with reduced energy consumption.
05
Promotes direct interaction with the surrounding terrain through strategically designed ramped circulation paths.
The Ice Cave Tower project is an architectural response to a unique geographical context characterized by the convergence of two continental landmasses. This structure serves as a multifunctional space within a dramatic landscape, designed to facilitate various activities while promoting interaction with its surroundings. The orientation of the building, primarily from east to west, symbolizes a connection between these landmasses, integrating cultural and historical significance into its design.

The primary function of the Ice Cave Tower is to provide shelter and a point of engagement for visitors. It includes spaces for contemplation, social interaction, and observation of the natural environment. The design employs an efficient use of space to ensure accessibility and fluid circulation throughout various parts of the tower.

Materiality is a significant aspect of the project. The exterior features blackened timber, which creates an organic connection to the landscape. This material choice not only aligns with the natural aesthetics but also serves to protect against the climatic conditions. The structure's skin is composed of translucent perforated metal, allowing for controlled light entry while providing structural integrity. The interior framework consists of concrete and steel, reinforcing the tonal and spatial narrative of minimalism that characterizes the overall design.

The Ice Cave Tower distinguishes itself with several unique design approaches. The use of ramped circulation facilitates a seamless transition between different levels, enhancing engagement with the landscape. This design choice emphasizes an immersive experience, allowing visitors to interact with and appreciate the geography surrounding the structure.

Another distinguishing feature is the integration of geothermal heating systems, which utilizes hot water sources in the area to maintain a safe and functional environment. This environmentally conscious design aligns with contemporary sustainability practices, ensuring the building’s resilience against harsh weather conditions.

The architectural plans reveal the intricacies of the Ice Cave Tower, highlighting thoughtful spatial organization that encourages movement and interaction. Architectural sections provide insights into the vertical dynamics of the building, illustrating the way light permeates different areas and how the structure relates to the topography.

For a comprehensive understanding of the project, including architectural designs, and architectural ideas that inform its conception, exploration of the detailed project presentation is encouraged. This investigation will reveal further details about its innovative approach and structural elements that define the Ice Cave Tower.
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 17,249 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