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Mirrored Façade and Tectonic Elements in a Cultural Tower

Authors:
Giacomo Chiarani, Elena Vitanza
Mirrored Façade and Tectonic Elements in a Cultural Tower
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The mirrored façade reflects the surrounding landscape while a tectonic-inspired crack serves as the entrance, guiding visitors through a cultural tower that celebrates Iceland's geological heritage and community engagement.
5 key facts about this project
01
Mirrored façade minimizes visual impact and reflects the surrounding landscape.
02
Central crack entrance symbolizes the tectonic activity of the region.
03
Floating lanterns illuminate the path and enhance the visitor experience.
04
Piezoelectric sensors generate energy from wind movement on the west elevation.
05
Recycled galvanized steel ensures durability against Iceland's harsh weather conditions.

The design features a tower located in Iceland, conceived as an open-air museum that embodies the four elemental forces: earth, fire, water, and air. It serves a dual purpose as an observation point and a cultural center, allowing visitors to connect with the unique landscape of Iceland. The architecture emphasizes a journey from solid ground to the sky, creating an experience where visitors can appreciate both the natural and cultural narratives of the site.

Entrance Experience

The entrance is marked by a significant crack that symbolizes tectonic activity, inviting visitors to engage with the geological aspects of the location. This design feature enhances the sense of entry, providing a transformative experience. Visible behind the façade are illuminated names, EURASIA and NORTH-AMERICA, which inform visitors about the continental divide and stimulate interest in the geological history surrounding them.

Façade and Reflection

The tower's front façade consists of mirrors that create a visual connection with the surrounding landscape. This reflective quality allows the structure to blend in with its environment, reducing its visual presence. As visitors move around the tower, each change in perspective reveals different aspects of the scenery, encouraging engagement with the natural beauty of the area.

Dynamic Engagement

The tower's design includes spaces that support various cultural activities, such as exhibitions and performances. The layout allows for platforms and areas where musicians can perform, fostering a sense of community and participation. This multi-use characteristic emphasizes the importance of interaction and exploration, making each visit a dynamic experience.

Sustainability and Materiality

Recycled galvanized steel is the central material used in the structure, chosen for its strength and ability to withstand Iceland's harsh weather conditions. This choice reflects a commitment to sustainability while minimizing environmental impact. The design incorporates bracing systems that support the structure against high winds without compromising its appearance.

The west elevation features square hollow sections that mimic the movement of wind. Each section contains piezoelectric film sensors that capture energy from wind movement. This detailed approach not only highlights innovative thinking about sustainability but also emphasizes the connection between the building and its environment. Visitors experience a harmonious blend of nature and architecture, providing a deeper understanding of Iceland's unique geology.

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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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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 €
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Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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