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Corroded Metal Structure Embracing Tectonic Forces and Geothermal Access

Authors:
Andrea Piña, Yael González
Corroded Metal Structure Embracing Tectonic Forces and Geothermal Access
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A skeletal metal structure designed to naturally corrode interacts with tectonic movements and geothermal access, providing a unique visitor experience centered around exploration and engagement with the surrounding landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Skeletal design allows for natural corrosion, enhancing environmental interaction.
02
Underground corridors connect to tectonic plates and nearby hot springs.
03
Construction incorporates rock excavated from the site for sustainability.
04
Building adapts to the local climate, continuously reshaping its presence.
05
Emphasis on visitor engagement through thoughtful spatial organization.

The Iceland Cave Tower project integrates closely with its natural surroundings in a rugged Icelandic landscape. Its design incorporates a skeletal metal structure that allows the building to interact with the local climate. The choice of materials is deliberate, with the aim of enabling corrosion over time, which contributes to a dynamic relationship between the tower and its environment.

Structural Approach

The architectural design features an incomplete skeletal structure that invites exploration. This design choice encourages visitors to engage with the space, as the open form allows for personal interpretation and interaction. The evolving character of the building is set against the backdrop of changing weather and landscapes, reinforcing its connection to the site.

Subterranean Elements

A notable aspect of the design is the underground component, which connects to the tectonic plate and provides access to nearby hot springs. This connection supports a well-organized layout, enhancing movement and exploration within the space. Strategic pathways guide visitors through the building, encouraging them to engage with the geothermal features that characterize the area.

Sustainability Considerations

Sustainability plays a key role in the project’s design. The walls and pavements are made from rock sourced during the excavation process, a choice that highlights a commitment to minimizing the carbon footprint. By using local materials, the project fosters a deeper connection to the geological features of the region and emphasizes an environmentally responsible approach to building.

The overall design culminates in an external façade that will naturally weather and adapt over time. This characteristic allows the tower to blend into the landscape, continuously reshaping its presence in the dynamic Icelandic environment.

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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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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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