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Greenhouse Effect in a Triangle with Corten and Steel

Authors:
Rosina Dück, Jennifer Cuadro
Greenhouse Effect in a Triangle with Corten and Steel
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A large skylight captures natural light within a triangular structure defined by a durable steel envelope and warm wooden interior, creating flexible spaces for community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Large skylight designed to enhance natural light and temperature regulation.
02
Triangular form allows for unique spatial flexibility and user interaction.
03
Steel envelope provides durability while the wooden interior adds warmth.
04
Integrates passive heating strategies to optimize energy efficiency.
05
Inner courtyard fosters community engagement and social connections.

The Light Triangle is located near Lake Myvatn in Reykjahlio, Iceland. It features a triangular design that focuses on enhancing user experience through effective use of space and natural light. Flexible areas within the building allow for various activities, accommodating the needs of different users in a tranquil setting.

Architecture Concept

At the heart of the design is a large skylight that plays a key role in maximizing light. Situated centrally and elevated, the skylight allows sunlight to flow into the space. Light reflects off the pavement, illuminating surrounding areas and creating a connection between inside and outside.



Environmental Responsiveness

The architecture responds well to its environment, featuring a triangular base defined by a steel envelope that forms the exterior. This layer provides strength and durability. Inside, a wooden envelope brings warmth and a natural quality to the interior spaces. This thoughtful combination enhances both functionality and aesthetics.



Material Choices

The skylight consists of triple-glazed hermetic units with PVC profiles, which improve insulation and energy efficiency. An inclined sheet metal roof is effective in directing water away while contributing a sleek profile. The facade uses glass and prefabricated concrete slabs covered with Corten steel, which withstand the local climate and requires little maintenance.



Functional Layout

The layout includes key functional areas such as waiting spaces, an office, a coffee shop, and storage. An inner courtyard serves as a communal area, enhancing interaction among users. These spaces are designed to encourage a sense of community and connection, enhancing the overall experience within the building.



The skylight not only acts as an important design feature but also optimizes energy performance, creating a greenhouse effect that helps maintain comfort and harnesses solar energy throughout the day.

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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.

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Celebrating your unbuilt architecture visions with a €100,000 prize

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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