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Recycled Steel and Photovoltaic Panels Shaping a Visitor Center in a Volcanic Landscape

Author:
Arnaldo Pompei
Recycled Steel and Photovoltaic Panels Shaping a Visitor Center in a Volcanic Landscape
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Designed with recycled steel and solar panels, this visitor center embodies sustainability while providing educational resources about the surrounding volcanic landscape.
5 key facts about this project
01
Designed to operate as a nearly zero-energy building.
02
Incorporates a geothermal heating and cooling system.
03
Features a dedicated volcano exhibition zone for educational engagement.
04
Utilizes recycled steel to minimize carbon emissions in construction.
05
Includes extensive tree planting to enhance local biodiversity.

The Energy Blade visitor center is located in a unique volcanic landscape, designed to serve as an interactive space for visitors and to promote ecological awareness. The overall concept centers on sustainability, aiming to reduce environmental impact through various innovative methods. This center intends to provide an engaging experience that highlights the geological features of the surrounding area.

Design Concept

The design focuses on using prefabricated systems that streamline both construction and ongoing operation. The use of recycled steel helps lower the carbon footprint associated with traditional building processes. Such choices reflect a commitment to sustainability, allowing for a thoughtful life cycle approach that is in line with modern architectural practices.

Spatial Organization

The ground floor layout enhances visitor experience by including distinct areas such as exhibition rooms, a hall, and key amenities like restrooms and an automatic bar. This careful arrangement promotes accessibility and encourages exploration, making it easy for visitors to enjoy the various offerings. A well-planned flow of spaces ensures comfortable navigation and meaningful engagement with the educational content and the natural environment.

Technical Integration

The design incorporates essential technical systems that support its sustainability goals. A geothermal system helps optimize heating and cooling, making use of the natural geothermal energy prevalent in the volcanic region. Solar panels are also strategically placed to capture sunlight and further reduce reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Additionally, tree planting initiatives promote biodiversity in the area, contributing to a balanced ecosystem that benefits both the building and its surroundings.

Architectural Form

The visitor center features a form that echoes the volcanic landscape, creating a visual connection with the environment. This choice allows for the maximization of natural light and air flow inside the building, enhancing the visitor experience while exploring the exhibits. The relationship between the architecture and nature highlights a commitment to harmonizing the built environment with the surrounding ecosystem, inviting visitors to connect with the volcanic setting.

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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
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