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Earth-Centric Community Space Embracing Natural Elements and Landscape Integration

Authors:
Carmelo Bagalà, Guido Mozzanica
Earth-Centric Community Space Embracing Natural Elements and Landscape Integration
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Constructed from earth, the design seamlessly integrates with its stunning natural surroundings to create a vibrant community space that encourages social interaction and engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed primarily from earth, reinforcing sustainability.
02
Features panoramic views of Myvatn Lake and Hverfjall Volcano.
03
Incorporates diverse outdoor play areas for community engagement.
04
Designed with energy efficiency in mind for seasonal adaptability.
05
Integrates lighting strategies tailored to the long winter months.

The project located near Myvatn Lake, Hverfjall Volcano, and Dimmuborgir Lava Field emphasizes a strong connection with the landscape. It focuses on functional spaces that serve the community while responding to the unique climate of the region. The design concept prioritizes user interaction and aims to create an inviting environment that blends with the natural surroundings.

SUSTAINABLE INTEGRATION

The master plan includes various functional areas such as a café, kitchen, and staff facilities, as well as outdoor playgrounds. This arrangement caters to different user groups and fosters social interaction, reflecting local culture and lifestyle. By incorporating both indoor and outdoor spaces, the design encourages engagement with nature and enhances the experience of the environment.

ENERGY PERFORMANCE

Energy diagrams incorporated into the design consider seasonal changes, aiming to optimize energy use in both summer and winter. This focus on energy performance shows a commitment to sustainability and comfort for users. The building is designed to adapt to Iceland's varied climate, ensuring functionality throughout the year, which is crucial for any facility in this region.

LIGHTING STRATEGY

The lighting system is carefully planned, featuring suspended lights, wall lights, outdoor lights, and table lights. This variety not only addresses practical lighting needs but also contributes to the overall atmosphere of the spaces. In the context of long winter nights, effective lighting becomes vital for maintaining an inviting and usable environment.

MATERIALITY

Earth is chosen as the primary building material, reflecting Icelandic architectural traditions and promoting sustainability. This material choice helps the structure connect with the landscape, reducing its environmental impact while enhancing its local character. The use of natural materials creates a harmonious relationship between the building and its surroundings, ensuring it feels like a part of the landscape.

The design captures the essence of its geographic context, emphasizing connectivity among users and with nature. This results in a space that is functional, welcoming, and attuned to the rhythms of its 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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Competition organisers

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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