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Immersive Geothermal Experience with Tectonic Footbridge

Authors:
Lucas Dias, Ariel Calabrese
Immersive Geothermal Experience with Tectonic Footbridge
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An upside-down spatial arrangement showcases the Grjótagjá Fault’s geological features, while an integrated footbridge and geothermal heating enhance the visitor experience in this immersive observation site.
5 key facts about this project
01
An integrated footbridge allows visitors to experience the fault from above.
02
Water fills the fault, creating an immersive natural feature.
03
Geothermal heating provides warmth, enhancing comfort in cold conditions.
04
The design encourages upward gazing, revealing the fault's structure.
05
Rest areas are strategically placed to promote reflection on geological processes.

The design around the Grjótagjá Fault is situated in a landscape shaped by the movement of tectonic plates. The observation site provides a space for learning and engagement, allowing visitors to connect with the geological significance of the area. The concept focuses on creating a spatial journey that highlights geological processes and encourages exploration.

Scenographic Elements

The design features a scenographic space that mimics the shapes of tectonic plate apertures, guiding visitors through an interactive experience with the fault. By recreating these natural forms, the layout allows for a direct encounter with the geological features. Visitors can observe the fault from various angles, deepening their understanding of the area’s geological history.

Interactive Features

Rest and refreshment areas are thoughtfully integrated above the main observation space. A footbridge spans the fault, offering visitors a chance to pause and take in the geological surroundings from new perspectives. This thoughtful mix of areas for relaxation and exploration enhances the overall experience, inviting deeper contemplation of the fault’s narrative.

Spatial Arrangements

An interesting aspect of the design is the "upside down" arrangement. Visitors can look up to see the fault from an unusual perspective. The incorporation of water into the fault adds to the immersive quality. This feature not only engages the senses but also emphasizes the ongoing natural processes within the landscape, fostering a connection to the environment.

Thermal Integration

The project includes a floor heating system that utilizes local geothermal energy. This feature allows visitors to lie down and feel the warmth, offering a contrast to the cooler temperatures outside. Through this design choice, the experience is enriched, reinforcing the connection between the visitors and the geological context in which they are situated.

The site culminates in a clear architectural expression that emphasizes the complexities of tectonic movement. It encourages active engagement with the natural world. Water fills the fault, altering the landscape and inviting visitors to explore and reflect on the geological features.

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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
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