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Dome Structure Featuring Lava Stone and Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Agriculture

Author:
Ivana Milosevic
Dome Structure Featuring Lava Stone and Vertical Gardens for Sustainable Agriculture
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Combining a dome structure with lava stone and vertical gardens, the design serves as an educational hub for sustainable agriculture, fostering interaction and engagement with the natural environment.
5 key facts about this project
01
Combines a dome shape with five distinct chambers for varied educational experiences.
02
Utilizes locally sourced lava stone to enhance environmental integration.
03
Incorporates vertical gardens and hydroponics to promote sustainable agriculture.
04
Features extensive glass elements for natural light and landscape views.
05
Emphasizes rainwater collection in its design for water conservation.

Hills of Mývatn is an architectural endeavor that integrates thoughtfully with the beautiful landscape of Iceland. Located within the region, it serves as an educational hub focused on agriculture and sustainable practices. The design concept revolves around a dome shape, symbolizing both an appreciation for agriculture and a reaction to environmental challenges.

Emphasizing Interaction and Education

The structure includes five distinct chambers, each designed to offer unique experiences for visitors. These spaces encourage engagement and learning about food production methods and environmental sustainability. Essential facilities, such as an open kitchen and vertical seed libraries, enhance the educational component, creating an environment conducive to exploration and interaction.

Material Choices Reflecting Context

Internally, wood and lava stone are used to create a warm, welcoming atmosphere. In contrast, the exterior is clad in white steel, offering a cooler appearance. This combination of materials reflects the climate of Iceland, reinforcing the relationship between the building and its natural surroundings.

Connection to Nature

Glass elements throughout the design strengthen the connection between the interior and the outdoors. These windows allow abundant natural light to enter, while also framing views of the surrounding landscape. This transparency supports the commitment to sustainability, aligning with modern architectural practices.

The design also acknowledges climate change and its impact on the environment. It weaves together a narrative that emphasizes awareness and responsibility. Among its features are innovative glazing technologies that enhance energy efficiency while encouraging a connection with nature, inviting users to engage with the changing 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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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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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