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Molded Concrete Structure Captures Dynamic Light in Visitor Experience

Authors:
Beñat Arejula, Ion Vianez, Unai Arejula
Molded Concrete Structure Captures Dynamic Light in Visitor Experience
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Molded concrete forms create an engaging interplay of light while providing essential spaces for visitors exploring the nearby caves and grottos.
5 key facts about this project
01
Molded concrete construction enhances structural durability while promoting thermal efficiency.
02
Strategically oriented upper floors provide views of local landmarks for enhanced visitor engagement.
03
Dynamic light interaction transforms interior spaces throughout the day, creating varying atmospheres.
04
The design minimizes exposure to Northwest winds, ensuring comfort and energy conservation.
05
Integrated visitor facilities support exploration of nearby natural features, enhancing the overall experience.

The Ice Lantern is located in Vogar, designed as a significant landmark that integrates with the landscape. It serves as a starting point for visitors exploring nearby caves and grottos. The overall design concept focuses on creating a building that helps with orientation and guidance while responding to the unique climate of the region.

Architecture Concept
The design is shaped by a thorough understanding of the local climate, which features low temperatures and strong Northwest winds. To address these conditions, the building is formed as a single volume that reduces exposure to harsh weather. This strategy not only increases thermal comfort but also promotes efficient use of space.

Spatial Organization
Inside the Ice Lantern, key areas include an information point, a coffee shop, and an observatory. These spaces are arranged to encourage interaction and connection with both the interior environment and the natural landscape outside. The building’s placement between existing parking areas and pathways enhances accessibility for visitors. Upper floors are oriented to showcase views of local landmarks, creating a stronger connection to the surrounding area.

Material Selection
Steel, glass, and molded concrete are used throughout the design, balancing functionality and visual appeal. Glass allows plenty of natural light to enter the building, making the interior bright and inviting. Molded concrete, on the other hand, provides structural strength and adds a tactile quality to the façade. This combination of materials contributes to the building's distinctive presence in the landscape.

Light Interaction
The façade of the Ice Lantern responds to changing light throughout the day, creating different moods inside. Openings and reflective surfaces are carefully placed to allow natural light to flood the spaces, enhancing their atmosphere. This characteristic not only adds visual interest but also reinforces the building's role as a refuge and a point of exploration in the Vogar landscape.

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Vancouver Tall Challenge: Building Higher Downtown

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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

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Design the future of Vancouver’s skyline

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