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Crystalline Facades and Dimmer Glass Highlighting Wellness in a Thermal Spa Experience

Crystalline Facades and Dimmer Glass Highlighting Wellness in a Thermal Spa Experience
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Crystalline facades made from reflective glass and polished steel immerse visitors in a therapeutic environment that amplifies the serene beauty of Iceland's landscape within a dedicated wellness spa.
5 key facts about this project
01
Crystalline facades enhance natural light while reflecting the surrounding landscape.
02
Polished steel accents provide a modern contrast to the organic forms of the building.
03
Dimmer glass allows for variable light conditions, adapting to user preferences.
04
The integration of thermal elements promotes energy efficiency throughout the spa.
05
The design emphasizes visitor engagement with panoramic views of Iceland's natural beauty.

### Overview

The Ice Crevasse is an architectural project located in Iceland, designed to serve as a beer spa. Its design is inspired by the contrasting natural elements of ice and magma, reflecting the unique geographical features of the Icelandic landscape. The primary intent is to create an environment that enhances user experience by engaging the senses and fostering a connection with the surrounding scenery.

### Spatial Configuration

The design features an exterior characterized by geometric forms that evoke the appearance of ice cubes, integrating angular lines and crystalline patterns. This configuration not only refracts natural light but also emits a gentle glow at night, contributing to the surrounding atmosphere. Internally, visitors are welcomed into a dynamic atrium shaped by organic forms that encourage movement and exploration. Pathways are designed to suggest the flow of water, enhancing the overall sensory experience. The layout includes designated areas for relaxation, treatment, and social interaction, optimizing visitor flow while ensuring functional efficiency.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

Materiality is a crucial component of the design, utilizing glass, concrete, polished stainless steel, and dimmer glass to forge a relationship between the interior and the exterior environment. Extensive use of glass facilitates the flow of natural light, particularly allowing for the observation of the Northern Lights—a significant natural phenomenon in the region. Concrete serves as a robust structural element, while polished stainless steel accents enhance the design's elegance. Eco-friendly materials are prioritized to promote sustainability and establish a strong connection with the local context of Iceland. The inclusion of dimmer glass allows for customizable lighting conditions, offering flexibility in ambiance and enhancing engagement with natural light sources.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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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

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Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

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Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

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Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

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Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
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Take a seat and make a statement!

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Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
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Buildner's Unbuilt Award

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

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

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