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Driftwood Facades and Volcanic Rock Foundations in Community-Centric Spaces

Driftwood Facades and Volcanic Rock Foundations in Community-Centric Spaces
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With driftwood facades that echo the natural landscape and volcanic rock foundations designed for durability, the structure integrates community spaces with a focus on sustainability and environmental sensitivity.
5 key facts about this project
01
Driftwood used in the facade is sourced locally, enhancing the project's connection to its environment.
02
Volcanic rock foundations provide durability suited to the harsh Icelandic climate.
03
Large glass walls maximize natural light while framing views of the natural landscape.
04
Community areas are designed to encourage social interactions among users.
05
The structure's sloped roofs are optimized for efficient snow drainage.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, the design project "Reflection" aims to create a built environment that harmonizes with its natural surroundings, drawing inspiration from local architectural traditions and cultural heritage. The intent is to facilitate an interactive relationship between the structures and the landscape, effectively integrating local materials to reflect Iceland's unique geographic and cultural context.

### Spatial Strategy and Architectural Forms

The design incorporates diverse programmatic spaces, including a snow groomer garage, locker rooms, communal areas, restrooms, a terrace, and a viewing cabin. This configuration promotes community interaction while addressing the practical demands of outdoor activities prevalent in the region. The strategic placement encourages a fluid transition between indoor and outdoor environments, maximizing views of the landscape.

Architecturally, the project features multiple structures characterized by sloped roofs and geometric forms reminiscent of traditional Icelandic buildings. These roofs are engineered to withstand heavy snowfall while facilitating efficient drainage. Expansive glass facades enhance natural light penetration, creating inviting interior spaces and reinforcing connections to the external environment.

### Materiality and Color Palette

The selection of materials is designed to reflect local characteristics and traditions. Driftwood, utilized in the interior, connects the built environment to its natural setting. Volcanic rock serves as a primary material for the exterior walls, showcasing Iceland's geological heritage while ensuring durability. Extensive use of glass in the facades allows for unobstructed views and maximizes light entry, effectively reinforcing the conceptual theme of reflection.

The color palette draws inspiration from Iceland's northern landscapes. Deep reds echo the volcanic soil, contributing warmth to the structures, while blue tones are representative of the icy terrains and clear skies, enhancing the project's thematic alignment with nature.

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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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