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Corten Steel and Wooden Pathway Enhancing Geological Exploration

Authors:
Lara Jean-louis, Chloé Anouilh
Corten Steel and Wooden Pathway Enhancing Geological Exploration
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Constructed from corten steel and wood, the pathway seamlessly guides visitors along a seismic fault line, providing access to the Karlagjá and Kvennagjá caves while emphasizing geological exploration and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed along a seismic fault line to enhance geological visibility.
02
Corten steel and wood materials integrate with the natural environment.
03
Provides sensory engagement through hot water access at Kvennagjá cave.
04
Pathway design allows for both vertical and horizontal exploration.
05
Informative façade educates visitors on ecosystem fragility and site rules.

The design is situated along a seismic fault line, connecting visitors with important geological features like the Karlagjá and Kvennagjá caves. It serves to guide pedestrian traffic through the site while prioritizing environmental preservation. The pathway arrangement creates a loop that accommodates changes in elevation, ultimately leading to a viewing platform that offers an elevated view of the landscape.

Visitor Experience

The journey begins with an informative wall that explains the area’s ecosystem and rules for engagement, enhancing visitors' understanding of the site’s delicate nature. As they walk along the pathway, they pass over the Karlagjá cave, gaining a view that helps them appreciate the geological formations without causing harm. This intentional design allows for a thoughtful interaction between guests and the natural environment.

Pathway and Viewing Platform

The pathway leads to a large ramp, allowing a smooth ascent to the viewing platform. This gradual climb helps visitors grasp the scale and depth of the fault line. The platform functions as a key feature, providing an open view of the surrounding landscape. With this perspective, visitors can reflect on the area’s geological characteristics and natural beauty.

Materials and Durability

Carefully selected materials contribute to the project's durability and visual connection with the landscape. Wooden decks serve as the main walking surfaces, creating a warm and inviting atmosphere. Corten steel guardrails are placed along the pathway to ensure safety while blending into the rugged terrain. The color and texture of the steel harmonize with the natural environment, reinforcing the relationship between the architecture and the landscape.

Accessibility Considerations

Accessibility is a primary concern in the design, illustrated by the long ramp that leads up to the viewing platform. This feature ensures that all visitors, regardless of mobility, can comfortably navigate the site. The gentle incline promotes an inclusive experience of the geological formations, allowing everyone to engage with the landscape.

The design culminates in a viewing platform that frames the fault line, inviting visitors to take in the geological formations from a new angle.

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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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100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
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