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Nature-Inspired Space with Ice Cave Elements and Flexible Usage

Authors:
Kyungmin Min, Hyeonseok Kim, Gyeongdeuk Park
Nature-Inspired Space with Ice Cave Elements and Flexible Usage
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Inspired by the unique forms of ice caves, the design creates a flexible community space that fosters interaction while reflecting the natural beauty of Iceland's landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Inspired by the geometry of ice caves.
02
Includes a flexible exhibition area for community use.
03
Integrates a "VOID" space to enhance visual connectivity.
04
Reflects local natural phenomena in its design.
05
Separates public and private zones effectively across two levels.

The project "Nameless" is located in the striking landscape of Iceland, which heavily influences its design. The structure embodies the country’s natural features, particularly its ice caves. It integrates spaces for public use alongside private offices for employees. The concept seeks to create a strong connection between the environment and the building, reflecting the essence of Iceland's unique geography.

Architectural Layout

The building is organized into two distinct levels. The first floor serves as a public zone, featuring a variety of multipurpose areas, meeting rooms, coworking spaces, and a cafeteria. This level encourages flexibility and accessibility for both visitors and employees. By providing a range of spaces, the layout promotes interaction and engagement, making it suitable for different activities.

The second floor transitions into a private zone. This level contains ten private offices designed for regular employees. To avoid a sense of confinement often associated with office spaces, a "VOID" area is incorporated. This feature creates visual and physical connections between the floors. It enhances circulation and allows for a sense of openness while maintaining necessary privacy.

Reflection of Nature

The design concept is inspired by Iceland's natural phenomena, such as the Northern Lights, the Blue Lagoon, and local geological formations like Hliðarjall Volcano. These elements influence the building’s visual appeal. The façade features a static design that contrasts with the dynamic interior spaces, highlighting the relationship between the natural environment and architectural form.

Specific materials are not mentioned in the presentations, but the design suggests finishes and textures that connect with the icy landscapes of Iceland. This aspect enhances the user experience, creating links between the building’s interior and the surrounding environment.

One notable design detail is the fluidity of the internal spaces, where light plays an important role. The arrangement of open areas creates a feeling of connection to the landscape outside, fostering a calm environment that mirrors the peaceful beauty of Iceland's nature.

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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 €
Eligibility Open to all
Final registration deadline 30 October 2025

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