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Curvilinear Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration Design for Northern Lights Viewing Center

Curvilinear Glass Facades and Sustainable Wood Integration Design for Northern Lights Viewing Center
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Curvilinear glass facades reflect the dynamic movements of the northern lights while the sustainable wood structure provides a multi-functional space for community engagement and seasonal activities.
5 key facts about this project
01
Curvilinear design mimics the movement of northern lights for enhanced visual connection.
02
Large glass facades promote natural light while framing panoramic landscape views.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural integrity and thermal efficiency.
04
Charred wooden shingles offer durability and a unique aesthetic finish.
05
Integrated viewing platforms maximize opportunities for outdoor engagement with nature.

### Overview
Vittan, located in Iceland's striking landscape, is designed to respond to the region's natural beauty and the phenomenon of the northern lights. The structure integrates harmoniously into its surroundings, featuring a fluid architectural form that reflects the dynamic movement of auroras. This design aims to foster a deep connection between users and the environment, facilitating an immersive experience while maximizing breathtaking views.

### Fluid Architectural Strategy
The building employs a sinuous design language that mirrors the flow of light seen in the night sky. Its configuration promotes continuity, supporting optimal sunlight access and enhancing visual engagement with the external landscape. Two distinct access points facilitate ease of movement, encouraging interaction between the built environment and the surrounding natural features. The interior spaces are designed to be open and fluid, allowing for natural circulation and a strong relationship with the outdoors.

### Material Selection and Sustainability
Materiality plays a critical role in both aesthetics and functionality within the challenging climate of Iceland. The primary materials include wood for warmth and sustainability, steel for structural integrity, concrete for foundational strength, and extensive glazing to maximize views and reflect the landscape. Insulation materials, such as polyurethane foam, are employed to ensure thermal efficiency, promoting passive heating and cooling throughout the year. This thoughtful selection underlines a commitment to sustainability, enabling the structure to adapt to the seasonal variations typical of the region.

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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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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
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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