Get inspired!

17,725 architecture projects

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

Monolithic Concrete Structure Integrating Geothermal Systems Within Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Ari Prasetya, Nicole Cinadr
Monolithic Concrete Structure Integrating Geothermal Systems Within Icelandic Landscape
Explore the full project presentation!
Subscribers only
Emphasizing a monolithic concrete form and incorporating geothermal systems, the design seamlessly integrates into the Icelandic landscape while serving as a visitor center for exploration and connection with nature.
5 key facts about this project
01
Monolithic concrete design enhances durability and weather resistance in Arctic conditions.
02
Geothermal heating system sustainably manages temperature throughout the building.
03
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views and natural light, fostering a connection with the outdoors.
04
Circular pathways promote exploration and interaction with the surrounding landscape.
05
Integration of local materials ensures minimal environmental impact and cultural relevance.

The project Silfra Anicé is an architectural endeavor located in Iceland, designed to integrate seamlessly with its rugged landscape. The building embodies a monolithic form that acts as an extension of its environment, using local materials and sustainable design practices. It is envisioned as a space for visitors to connect with nature while providing essential facilities that enhance the user experience. The project addresses the inherent challenges of the Icelandic climate while emphasizing functionality and aesthetic coherence.

Architecturally, Silfra Anicé distinguishes itself through its unique design approach that emphasizes organic forms and a connection to the surrounding landscape. The primary material utilized is reinforced concrete, which provides durability and weather resistance. Large glass panels are strategically placed to maximize natural light and frame views of the breathtaking landscape, inviting the natural surroundings into the interior space. The integration of geothermal heating ensures energy efficiency and sustainable operation, aligning with contemporary architectural practices that prioritize environmental responsibility.

Integration of Natural Elements One of the key features of Silfra Anicé is its emphasis on sensory experiences. The layout guides visitors along a serpentine pathway that reveals different aspects of the landscape, encouraging exploration and reflection. The circular pathways facilitate movement and create a sense of continuity between the interior and exterior spaces. The design incorporates open spaces and fluid circulation, allowing users to traverse the building effortlessly while minimizing any sense of confinement.

Sustainable and Practical Materials Another unique aspect of this project is its consideration of materiality in relation to sustainability and functionality. The use of reinforced concrete provides a robust framework, while insulating materials enhance the building's energy efficiency. The incorporation of geothermal systems not only addresses heating needs but also complements the architectural ethos of environmental integration. Water management systems are employed to handle environmental challenges, ensuring that the building operates in harmony with its surroundings.

For further exploration of Silfra Anicé, please review the architectural plans, sections, and overall designs to gain deeper insights into this innovative architectural project. Engaging with the detailed architectural ideas will provide a comprehensive understanding of its unique approach and functional aspirations.

Noticed a mistake?
Highlight the text and click on
Noticed a mistake

Enter an open architecture
competition now

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
100,000€ Prize / 2025
The Home of 
Shadows
The Home of Shadows
The light studies. Edition #4
The Next House: USA
The Next House: USA
20,000 USD Prize
The Architect's 
Chair
The Architect's Chair
Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5
Kinderspace
Kinderspace
Architecture for Children’s Development #3
The Architect’s 
Stair
The Architect’s Stair
Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3

The Buildner’s Unbuilt Award 2025: Celebrating Architectural Creativity and Visionary Unbuilt Designs with a Total Prize Fund of €100,000

`
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.

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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
The Next House: USA

Design the next suburban home for the USA

20,000 USD Prize ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 19 November 2025
new
Iceland 
Slow Sauna

Design slow sauna in Iceland

project COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 26 November 2025
Concrete 
Pavilion

Design a concrete pavilion

Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
new
Pavilion Atlas 2026

Design a story of your country

ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 21 January 2026

Recurring architecture competitions

Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025

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

100,000€ Prize / 2025 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 100,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025
new
The Home of 
Shadows

Design a home with no artificial lighting

The light studies. Edition #4 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility OPEN TO ALL
Early bird registration deadline 5 November 2025
The Last 
Nuclear Bomb Memorial

Design a memorial that speaks to the cause of ending all nuclear weapons programs

Edition #6 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
Final registration deadline 13 November 2025
new
The Architect's 
Chair

Take a seat and make a statement!

Take a seat and make a statement! Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Early bird registration deadline 20 November 2025
Hospice - 
Home for the 
Terminally ill

Design a safe and supportive space to those struggling with a terminal illness

Edition #5 ideas COMPETITION
Prize 10,000 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Kinderspace

Design a kindergarten of tomorrow

Architecture for Children’s Development #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 26 November 2025
Museum of 
Emotions

Use architecture to create different emotional states

Edition #7 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
Final registration deadline 27 November 2025
Re:Form - 
New Life 
for Old Spaces

Choose a site—used, abandoned, or forgotten—anywhere in the world, and give it a new purpose

Edition #2 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 3 December 2025
The Architect’s 
Stair

Take a step and make a statement!

Take a step and make a statement! Edition #3 ideas COMPETITION
Prize Monetary award
Eligibility Open to all
Advance registration deadline 15 January 2026

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

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy