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Elevated Structure with Wood Framework Embracing Nature and Film

Author:
Chinh Vu
Elevated Structure with Wood Framework Embracing Nature and Film
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An elevated structure framed in wood integrates augmented reality features, inviting community interaction with Iceland's stunning landscape while serving as a cultural hub for film.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated design provides a panoramic view of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
02
Incorporates augmented reality for an interactive visitor experience.
03
Wood framework minimizes carbon footprint and enhances sustainability.
04
Located near the Grjótagjá caves and Hverfjall volcano, enriching its context.
05
Interior features a gravel pit that serves as a backdrop for atmospheric lighting.

The Twilight Ark sits above the Mid-Atlantic Ridge in Iceland. This unique setting directly influences its design. Serving as a cultural center for film, the structure encourages visitors to explore stories that blend reality and imagination. The design emphasizes harmony with the landscape, while also fostering community involvement in the art of filmmaking.

Architectural Form

The form of the Twilight Ark features an asymmetrical silhouette that resembles the irregular shapes of the surrounding geological features. This thoughtful design allows the building to blend into its environment, enhancing the connection between architecture and nature. Through its elevated design, the structure offers a wide view of the landscape, allowing visitors to feel a sense of openness as they approach.

Interior Layout

Inside, the building is organized into three main areas: an entrance hall, a movie theater, and a lounge. These spaces are designed to receive ample natural light, creating different moods throughout the day. A unique aspect of the design is a pit filled with gravel and atmospheric lighting. This area serves as a backdrop for augmented reality overlays, adding depth to the cinematic experience. Visitors are encouraged to engage actively, stepping into the stories that unfold around them.

Sustainability Focus

Sustainability is a key consideration in the design of the Twilight Ark. The use of a wood framework helps reduce carbon emissions and reinforces the connection to the natural surroundings. This choice shows a commitment to environmental responsibility. The design also includes plans for a demountable structure, which aims to lessen its long-term impact on the landscape, keeping the area close to its natural state.

As visitors arrive along the long wooden pier leading to the Ark, they experience a growing sense of anticipation. This path not only provides access but also prepares them for a journey that intertwines film and the beauty of nature. The design encapsulates a unique experience, inviting everyone to engage with both art and the landscape.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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100,000€ Prize / 2025
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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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