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Geothermal Retreat Framed by Cross-Laminated Timber and Plywood in Volcanic Landscape

Authors:
Florencia Alleges, Agustín Fernández
Geothermal Retreat Framed by Cross-Laminated Timber and Plywood in Volcanic Landscape
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Framed by cross-laminated timber and plywood, the design harmonizes with the volcanic landscape while incorporating geothermal heating to serve as a visitor center that fosters connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Framed by a unique dual-triangle layout.
02
Constructed with cross-laminated timber and plywood materials.
03
Incorporates geothermal heating for energy efficiency.
04
Provides panoramic views of the surrounding volcanic landscape.
05
Features a main entrance characterized by a connecting slot between volumes.

Haverfjall's Triangles is located near the Haverfjall volcano, featuring a design that connects built structures with the surrounding landscape. The layout consists of two large, offset triangles that serve distinct functions. One triangle includes private spaces while the other hosts public areas, creating a balance between comfort and openness. This arrangement helps establish a strong link between visitors and the natural environment.

Structural Design

The design utilizes two large triangles, separated yet complementing each other, to create defined areas within the space. The main entrance is marked by a large opening that connects the two parts, allowing for easy movement and flow. This thoughtful design enables visitors to transition smoothly from one area to another, enhancing their experience within the building.

Material Selection

Materials were chosen to support the overall concept and functionality of the structure. The roof is made from plywood, providing a lightweight covering that aligns well with the geometric design. Cross-laminated timber serves as the Walls, offering both stability and an inviting aesthetic. Polished concrete floors add a clean finish, supporting an efficient geothermal heating system. The foundation, made of reinforced concrete mixed with volcanic ash, ties the building to its geological background.

Environmental Considerations

The design incorporates practical features, such as wind protection and careful placement in relation to sunlight. These considerations create comfortable indoor conditions, ensuring that the building allows ample natural light while remaining energy efficient. The architecture aims to connect with its surroundings, where contrasting materials and forms contribute to a functional yet visually engaging appearance.

Large windows beneath the floating roofs frame views of the landscapes, allowing natural light to flood the interiors. This detail emphasizes the connection between the inside spaces and the outside world, inviting visitors to experience the beauty of the environment.

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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.

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