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Grass-Covered Roof and Local Stone Facade Enhance Visitor Experience at Sustainable Structure

Grass-Covered Roof and Local Stone Facade Enhance Visitor Experience at Sustainable Structure
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With a grass-covered roof and locally sourced stone facade, the structure seamlessly integrates into its rugged Icelandic landscape while serving as a multifunctional visitor center.
5 key facts about this project
01
Grass-covered roofing enhances insulation and blends the structure into the surrounding landscape.
02
Local stone is utilized for the facade, reflecting traditional Icelandic building practices.
03
Cross-laminated timber panels provide structural stability while minimizing environmental impact.
04
Charred wooden shingles are employed for durability and low maintenance in harsh weather conditions.
05
The bent A-frame design promotes snow shedding and optimizes interior space.

### Project Overview
Located in proximity to the Skiásvæði i Krófu in Iceland, Jafnvaelgi represents an integration of local architectural heritage, environmental considerations, and contemporary design requirements. This project is designed to respond to the unique climatic and cultural context of its environment while enhancing the visitor experience through strategic architectural choices.

### Conceptual Framework
The design emphasizes the use of natural materials and traditional construction methods, aiming for a resilient and environmentally sustainable structure. Key considerations include optimizing energy efficiency and minimizing ecological impact, with a focus on the building’s orientation and material selection. This approach ensures that the design can endure harsh climatic conditions, such as icy winds and heavy snowfall, while contributing to the locality’s aesthetic.

### Materiality and Design Elements
The construction utilizes a variety of materials that align with sustainability goals:
- **Earth-Covered Grass**: This material enhances thermal insulation, ensuring comfortable interior climates across seasons.
- **Wood**: A traditional choice, it provides both durability and a warm aesthetic.
- **Local Stone**: Selected for structural integrity, it resonates with the surrounding landscape.
- **Metal Sheets**: Used for cladding, these materials are durable and require minimal maintenance.
- **Glass Elements**: Maximizing natural light and framing views of the landscape are key functions of the glass included in the design.

The building's form reflects a modern interpretation of traditional Icelandic architecture, particularly in its pitched roof, which facilitates snow shedding. Its façade integrates a mix of natural and crafted materials that blend into the natural environment, while strategic color application directs attention to functional spaces. Interior areas support varied activities—reception, equipment check, and relaxation zones—while fostering versatility for different events and promoting an immersive cultural experience through decor inspired by the local fauna.

The emphasis on accessibility ensures that the building accommodates all visitors, including those with disabilities, enhancing its inclusivity while maintaining a welcoming atmosphere against the backdrop of the Icelandic landscape.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 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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