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 Wells and Metallic Pipes Enhancing Sensory Experiences in Icelandic Nature

Authors:
Mariwenn Lefebvre, Loona Bapte
Geothermal Wells and Metallic Pipes Enhancing Sensory Experiences in Icelandic Nature
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Geothermal wells and metallic pipes create an immersive experience that connects visitors to the unique Icelandic landscape while serving as a multi-functional facility for relaxation and exploration.
5 key facts about this project
01
Geothermal wells provide sustainable heating for the bathing areas.
02
Metallic pipes create an auditory experience during the ascent.
03
A maze-like pavilion enhances tactile exploration of local textures.
04
The design integrates elements inspired by the Kvennagjá Caves.
05
A central fire pit promotes social interaction and community gathering.

The design is situated in the striking landscape of Iceland, focusing on the elemental experiences of air, earth, fire, and water. Each of these themes has been carefully crafted to engage visitors more deeply with the environment. The intention is to create spaces that go beyond mere functionality, allowing users to interact meaningfully with nature while exploring their surroundings.

AIR
The air component invites visitors to ascend through a tower. It is surrounded by metallic pipes, which produce soundscapes that accompany the journey upward. This auditory element adds depth to the experience. Reaching the top offers panoramic views of the beautiful natural scenery. The design encourages individuals to disconnect from their immediate surroundings, promoting a feeling of elevation and reflection.


EARTH
The earth-themed section features a maze-like pavilion designed for exploration and learning. Here, visitors can discover information about the nearby Grjótagjá Cave while also experiencing different textures found in the earth. This pavilion creates an interactive environment, enhancing awareness of the local geology and natural features, making the experience both educational and sensory.


FIRE
The fire area includes a central fire pit. This feature promotes social interactions among visitors, who gather around its warmth. The light from the flames creates a welcoming atmosphere, encouraging a sense of community. This communal space contrasts with the rugged exterior, providing a cozy area for relaxation and conversation.


WATER
Water plays a vital role in the design by offering a bathing experience inspired by the Kvennagjá Caves. Visitors are invited to engage with the flowing water in a way that is both soothing and thoughtful. The design incorporates a system where heat from the fire pit warms the bathing area, creating a comfortable and restorative setting.


The integration of geothermal superficial wells in the design demonstrates a commitment to sustainability. This system helps regulate temperatures throughout the building with minimal energy use. By focusing on these elemental experiences, the design fosters a strong connection between visitors and the Icelandic landscape, creating an environment that encourages exploration and appreciation of nature's wonders.

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