Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Harnessing Perspective Through Elevated Vantage Points in Iceland

Author:
Reed Doolan
Harnessing Perspective Through Elevated Vantage Points in Iceland
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Elevated vantage points offer a unique perspective on Iceland’s volcanic landscape, while a carefully designed ramp enhances accessibility, making it an inviting lookout for exploration and contemplation.
5 key facts about this project
01
Elevated lookout offers two distinct vantage points for varied landscape perspectives.
02
Incorporates a ramp for enhanced accessibility to all visitors.
03
Design emphasizes the interplay between isolation and connection to nature.
04
Strategically positioned within the Icelandic volcanic triangle for optimal views.
05
User experience is prioritized through thoughtful spatial arrangements and design elements.

The lookout is positioned at the highest point in Hverfjall, Iceland. Its main purpose is observation, providing visitors with the chance to explore the unique features of the Icelandic volcanic triangle. The design aims to balance feelings of isolation and connection, encouraging visitors to engage with the rugged landscape through various perspectives.

VANTAGE POINTS

Key to the design are the defined vantage points, labeled the "INDIVIDUAL NORTH VIEW" and "INTERRELATION SOUTH VIEW." These viewpoints allow visitors to see different aspects of the striking scenery. By emphasizing these orientations, the lookout highlights the importance of spatial relationships in understanding the surrounding environment.

ACCESSIBILITY

A ramp is included in the design to ensure accessibility for all users. This feature reflects a commitment to inclusivity and considers the diverse needs of visitors. By making it easier to reach the lookout, the design becomes more inviting and encourages different groups to interact with the landscape.

EXPERIENTIAL DESIGN

The focus on personal experience is central to the project. Visitors are encouraged to reflect and contemplate while surrounded by the dramatic landscape. Each design element contributes to a deeper connection with the natural surroundings, providing an opportunity to engage with the site meaningfully.

The lookout demonstrates how architecture can integrate into the landscape while respecting the unique qualities of its environment. The design fosters a relationship between people and nature, encouraging appreciation for the remarkable geographical features of Hverfjall and its volcanic terrain.

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