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Parametric Facade of Recycled Plastics Embraces the Icelandic Landscape

Authors:
Nicolás Odorico, Gustavo Alejandro Rosso, Erik Franz Medina
Parametric Facade of Recycled Plastics Embraces the Icelandic Landscape
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Constructed with a parametric facade of recycled ocean plastics, the building harmonizes with Iceland's environment while providing essential community and workspace functions.
5 key facts about this project
01
Constructed with cross-laminated timber panels for sustainability.
02
Facade design incorporates recycled ocean plastics for environmental impact.
03
Features a glass dome to enhance views of the aurora borealis.
04
Designed with a cylindrical shape to blend with Iceland's landscapes.
05
Includes a viewpoint deck offering panoramic scenic experiences.

The project is located in Iceland, a country known for its unique landscapes, including volcanoes and glaciers. The design emphasizes a connection with the natural environment while prioritizing sustainability and community participation. With its cylindrical shape, the building represents a collective dedication to caring for the ecosystem. The arrangement includes multiple levels, each serving specific functions that allow for meaningful interactions among users.

Foundation

The base floor sits 1.5 meters above the ground and includes key features like parking spaces for cars and buses, an entrance, a distribution hall, and sanitary facilities. There is also a viewpoint deck, providing visitors with a chance to enjoy the surrounding scenery. This level acts as the main access point, welcoming the public into the space.

Cultural Hub

The sub floor is located five meters below ground level and includes areas for education and community activities. It features a museum entrance, a polivalent room, and a coffee bar, all designed to encourage social interaction. This level is intended as a cultural hub, where people can gather, learn, and connect through various experiences.

Work and Social Spaces

On the first floor, which rises to 5.2 meters, public and private offices are arranged alongside a meeting room. This layout is meant to boost collaboration and productivity. The second floor, elevated at 3.8 meters, enhances the social aspect of the building, featuring a resto bar, kitchen, and additional coworking space, highlighting the importance of communal areas in the design.

Material and Aesthetic Details

A cross-laminated timber panel system forms the primary structure of the building, reflecting a commitment to sustainability. The facade displays a parametric design made from recycled ocean plastics, addressing environmental issues and adding visual interest. Furthermore, double hermetic curved glass enhances the building’s thermal efficiency and creates a dynamic presence. A distinctive glass dome is also part of the design, allowing for views of the aurora borealis and offering a unique experience for visitors inside.

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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.

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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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