Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Circular Shelter Crafted from Volcanic Rock and Basalt Stone in the Icelandic Landscape

Author:
Nash Waters
Circular Shelter Crafted from Volcanic Rock and Basalt Stone in the Icelandic Landscape
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Constructed using locally sourced volcanic rock and basalt stone, the cabin seamlessly integrates with the Icelandic landscape while providing a functional retreat for trekkers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with locally sourced volcanic rock, enhancing sustainability and connection to the landscape.
02
Circular design mirrors the local terrain, reducing visual impact and promoting harmony with nature.
03
Large operable windows provide panoramic views and facilitate natural ventilation for occupant comfort.
04
Modular construction methods enable efficient assembly and transportation to remote sites.
05
Integrated rainwater management system enhances sustainability by utilizing local climate conditions.

**Project Overview**
The RELIEF trekking cabin is situated along the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in Iceland, an area characterized by diverse and dramatic landscapes. The design aims to provide shelter while fostering a meaningful connection between visitors and the surrounding wilderness. By emphasizing rest and immersion in nature, the cabin serves as a sanctuary that responds to the region’s distinct geological features.

**Spatial Organization and Interaction**
The architectural layout is centered on a circular form that promotes fluid movement between key functional areas, including the entry, bath, kitchen, living/sleeping, and dining spaces. This arrangement is expressly designed to enhance user experience, offering expansive views through strategically positioned window walls. The entry serves as a welcoming threshold, while living and sleeping areas are multifunctional, catering to relaxation and social interaction. Operable windows are integrated to ensure natural ventilation, adapting to the region's variable climatic conditions.

**Materials and Environmental Integration**
Material selection reflects a commitment to sustainability and local context. The cabin's exterior is constructed from locally sourced volcanic rock and basalt stone, materials that resonate with Iceland's geological landscape. These materials not only provide durability and aesthetic appeal but also create textures that engage occupants visually and tactically. The design prioritizes lightweight construction techniques that enhance structural stability while facilitating ease of transport and assembly on site, ensuring minimal disruption to the natural environment.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 10 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

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 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in