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Glacial Forms Shaping User Engagement Through Integrated Substructure

Author:
Desmond Zeiber
Glacial Forms Shaping User Engagement Through Integrated Substructure
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Inspired by glacial forms, the design employs a robust substructure to enhance user engagement through designated high and low commitment zones, ultimately serving as an observatory and interactive gathering space.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by glacial formations, the design integrates sharp, organic forms into the landscape.
02
A robust substructure anchors the tensile structure, enhancing stability and usability.
03
High commitment zones encourage deeper user engagement through exploratory pathways.
04
Cave entrances add an interactive element, inviting curiosity and discovery.
05
The project emphasizes user-driven decision-making through spatial arrangement.

The design titled "Crevasse Divides Program to Force Decision Making" is situated in a landscape shaped by glacial influences. The concept emphasizes how the arrangement of spaces can guide user choices and enhance interactions. The project features a strong structural framework that connects different areas while anchoring a tensile design to the ground.

Design Concept

At the center of the design is a sturdy substructure that links various components while providing essential support. The sharp forms evoke the appearance of ice formations, creating a visual synergy with the natural surroundings. This approach aims to merge the architectural elements with the landscape, showcasing a thoughtful response to the environment.

Programmatic Arrangement

The layout divides spaces into categories based on user engagement levels. High commitment zones include an observatory, a cafe, cave entrances, and pathways that invite exploration. The observatory encourages visitors to connect with expansive views of the landscape. The cafe acts as a gathering space, fostering social interaction among users. Cave entrances add an element of adventure, allowing individuals to discover hidden features within the project.

Functional Spaces

Low commitment areas cater to the needs of workers and guests. Offices, restrooms, and additional cafe facilities ensure that practicality is not overlooked. This thoughtful distribution of spaces accommodates a range of users. It promotes comfort and accessibility while maintaining a unified design theme.

Structural Integrity

The project maintains its stability through columns that secure the tensile fabric in place. Platforms support various programmatic areas and are positioned strategically within the substructure. This combination allows for a layered interaction with the landscape. The integration of these structural components highlights a connection between nature and the built environment.

From the observatory, the view opens up across the landscape, creating a sense of place that invites users to engage with their surroundings. The design reflects a balance of function and environment, offering a clear response to both user needs and the site’s unique context.

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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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