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Pyramid Roof Structure Clad in Glass Panels and Wood Achieves Flexible Accommodation in Iceland's Landscape

Author:
Anna Makaikina
Pyramid Roof Structure Clad in Glass Panels and Wood Achieves Flexible Accommodation in Iceland's Landscape
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Clad in expansive glass panels and characterized by a distinctive pyramid roof, the design facilitates flexible guest accommodations that harmonize with Iceland's stunning natural landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Clad in charred wooden shingles, enhancing durability and aesthetics.
02
Features a pentagonal layout to optimize guest interactions and space utilization.
03
Incorporates movable wall panels, allowing for flexible room configurations.
04
Large glass panels provide unobstructed views of the Northern Lights.
05
Solar panels integrated into the roof for sustainable energy use.

### Overview

Located in Iceland, this project is designed to provide a unique accommodation experience for guests wanting to witness the Northern Lights. The conceptual framework emphasizes functionality, scalability, and a respectful integration with the natural surroundings. The facility's layout consists of a pentagonal main building complemented by expandable side rooms, allowing for flexibility in guest accommodations based on seasonal demand.

### Spatial Organization

The main building serves multiple functions, including a reception area that welcomes guests, dining and lounge zones designed for varying group sizes, and auxiliary spaces that support operational needs (such as technical rooms, a sauna, and storage facilities). Expandable rooms are positioned along the periphery of the main structure and utilize sliding wall panels to adjust their sizes. This adaptability enhances the space during peak occupancy periods. The second floor is dedicated to premium guest accommodations, featuring expansive views of the Icelandic landscape through large glass panels integrated into a pyramid roof structure, ensuring an immersive experience with the surrounding environment. The outdoor spaces encompass expansive lawns, parking, and pathways that encourage engagement with the natural vistas.

### Material Selection

The material palette has been deliberately chosen to align with the landscape while promoting sustainability and comfort. Wood is utilized for both structural elements and interior finishes, providing warmth and a connection to the environment. The extensive use of glass facilitates natural light and encourages transparency, fostering a connection between interior and exterior spaces. Metal roofing enhances durability and protection from harsh weather, while composite decking offers a resilient outdoor area designed for enjoyment in varying conditions. These selections collectively emphasize sustainable practices and harmonization with the natural context.

### Innovative Design Elements

Flexibility is a hallmark of the design, allowing each expandable room to adjust in size through movable wall panels, thus optimizing operational efficiency. Environmental considerations include skylights integrated into the roof extensions of the expandable rooms, which maximize natural light and reduce energy use. Furthermore, solar panels are installed on the ground floor roof, strategically positioned to preserve views while contributing to the project's sustainability goals.

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Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2025
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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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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

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