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Concrete Gallery Nestled in the Hverfjall Landscape

Author:
Janez Flerin
Concrete Gallery Nestled in the Hverfjall Landscape
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Set against the impressive backdrop of Hverfjall, a concrete gallery descends into the earth, inviting visitors to engage with curated exhibitions while experiencing uninterrupted views of the surrounding landscape from an inviting café space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Locally designed seating enhances the café's connection to regional craftsmanship.
02
The entrance features a linear beam of light, creating a unique welcoming experience.
03
The underground path leads visitors through a curved gallery optimized for various exhibitions.
04
Concrete walls provide structural support while reflecting the surrounding geological context.
05
Large panoramic windows frame views, integrating the interior with the natural landscape.

The design near the Hverfjall Volcano emphasizes a connection between the built environment and the surrounding landscape. Located at the base of this notable geological feature, the structure is both functional and engaging. It offers visitors an experience that integrates nature with essential activities. The design concept is rooted in transparency and fluidity, inviting interaction and exploration.

Nature-Inspired Entry
As visitors approach, they notice a linear beam of light indicating the entrance. This beam draws attention and suggests a welcoming atmosphere. The entry is framed with glass walls, giving the impression of open space. Nature becomes part of the building, encouraging visitors to connect with the stunning views of the landscape while remaining sheltered from the wind and rain.

Underground Pathway
Once inside, a descending path leads deeper into the earth. This path adds an element of curiosity, allowing visitors to explore the gallery space. The design features a curved gallery that serves different exhibition needs. Concrete walls are carefully placed to provide support while offering a tangible connection to the soil and rock surrounding the area.

Café as Central Gathering Point
At the upper level, a coffee shop acts as a social center. It includes seating crafted by local designers. Warm lighting creates an inviting atmosphere, perfect for relaxing and enjoying the view. The café's location provides a vantage point for visitors to pause and appreciate the beauty of their surroundings.

Environmental Integration
The design highlights a thoughtful relationship with the Hverfjall Volcano. Concrete is utilized not just for strength but also to reflect the textures found in the landscape. Each area in the structure offers a different perspective of the natural world outside. Windows frame views of the scenery, making them an essential part of daily life in the building.

A large panoramic window invites light and views into the interior, allowing visitors to feel as if they are part of the landscape.

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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

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

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