Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

Learn from past Buildner architecture competition participants through our extensive project library, curated over more than 15 years!

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
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
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.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

`
Competition organisers

The Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown is an international architecture competition organized by Buildner in collaboration with the City of Vancouver and the University of British Columbia’s School of Architecture and Landscape Architecture (SALA). The competition invites architects, designers, planners, and creative thinkers to explore innovative approaches to tall buildings in Vancouver’s downtown core, focusing on sustainability, livability, urban density, public space, and the city’s strong connection to nature. As Vancouver continues to grow, participants are challenged to rethink how vertical development can enhance urban life and contribute to a more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient city identity.

The competition offers a total prize fund of $15,000 CAD, with winning proposals selected by an international jury of architects, planners, academics, and city-building professionals. Key dates include the final registration deadline on October 29, 2026, submission deadline on November 30, 2026, and winners announcement on January 26, 2027. Full competition details, requirements, and registration information are available at architecturecompetitions.com/VancouverTallChallenge

Vancouver Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026

Open architecture competitions

  • Closest deadline first
  • Project competitions first
    Selected winning projects have the potential to be constructed
  • Ideas competitions
    Experimental competitions with the focus on pushing the boundaries of creativity
New York High Falls 
Riverfront Market

Design a New Riverfront Market in Rochester, New York

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 7 October 2026
Valli Wine 
Tasting Room

Design a wine tasting room in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 8 October 2026
The 
Quiet 
Tower

Design an observation tower in Latvia

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 October 2026
Vancouver 
Tall Challenge

Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

Building higher downtown ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 29 October 2026
The Oak 
Moon 
Pavilion

Design a yoga pavilion in Italy

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 5 November 2026
Portugal Long Table 
Restaurant

Design a slow-living restaurant in Portugal

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 9 December 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 28 October 2026
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #9 ideas COMPETITION SILENT CONTEST For this competition, NO DESCRIPTION TEXT is allowed. The architecture ideas must be communicated strictly with visuals.
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 12 November 2026
The 
Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Stockholm Furniture Fair Edition #6 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award + Exhibition at Stockholm Furniture Fair
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 3 December 2026
new
Buildner's Unbuilt Award

Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a 50,000€ prize

50,000€ Prize / 2027 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 50,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 4 February 2027

Media, partners and clients

To view this project in detail,
please log in with your
Architects’ Network Plus account.
Subscription instantly unlocks all the architecture projects plus other member-only benefits:
  • Access the 17,725 Concept Library
  • Professional tools including file transfer, email, portfolio management, and more
Register now
Already a member? Log in