Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

Curvilinear Structure with Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating in an Icelandic Ski Refuge

Curvilinear Structure with Gabion Walls and Geothermal Heating in an Icelandic Ski Refuge
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Utilizing gabion walls and a curvilinear form, the ski refuge seamlessly integrates with the rugged Icelandic landscape while employing geothermal heating to create a sustainable retreat for winter adventurers.
5 key facts about this project
01
Utilizes local gabion walls filled with stones to blend with the surrounding landscape.
02
Incorporates geothermal heating systems, enhancing energy efficiency and sustainability.
03
Features a bent A-frame design, optimizing structural integrity in harsh weather conditions.
04
Large glass panels frame views of the Northern Lights while ensuring thermal performance.
05
Integrates outdoor platforms for panoramic viewing of Iceland's diverse natural scenery.

### Overview

Located in the Myvatn region of Iceland, the ski refuge is designed to complement the area's diverse geological features, including volcanic terrains and geothermal landscapes. This architectural endeavor emphasizes exploration and self-discovery amid nature, inviting visitors to navigate varying terrains and engage with their surroundings. The design reflects the dual themes of being "lost" and "found," embodying a metaphor for personal and environmental journeys.

### Spatial Configuration and Circulation

The building's form employs a dynamic configuration of curvilinear shapes integrated with more rigid structures, which not only enhances visual interest but also facilitates natural movement throughout the space. Visitors approach the refuge via pathways that blend with the natural contours of the landscape, creating an immersive journey that culminates in strategically placed viewing platforms. These areas offer engaging perspectives of the surrounding terrain and natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, while ensuring privacy.

### Material Selection and Sustainability

A carefully curated material palette enhances both the aesthetic and functional aspects of the design. Gabion baskets filled with local stones serve as structural elements, promoting a sense of integration with the environment and regulating thermal properties. The exterior, finished in concrete, echoes the ruggedness of the landscape, while wood accents on the interior foster a warm atmosphere. Large glass panels invite natural light and panoramic views, significantly contributing to the refuge's environmental aspirations. The incorporation of geothermal energy, sunlight-oriented windows, and rainwater harvesting systems further exemplifies a commitment to sustainability, encouraging visitors to connect with the local ecosystem.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
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

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
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
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

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

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

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in